How do I choose a good doctor?


We all know that the hunt for a new doctor can be a very long and stressful process. So what is the secret to finding a good doctor in a timely manner? Here are some guidelines to make your decision as pain-free as possible:

  • Credentials – Don’t hesitate to verify a doctor’s medical license, certifications and professional society memberships to ensure he is properly trained.
  • Experience – During a consultation with a doctor ask about his medical education and training that is specific to the procedure you are considering. You can also ask how many procedures of this kind he has performed and how often he performs them.
  • Referrals – Ask your friends and family if they have any doctors that they would like to recommend to you. But keep in mind that doctors specialize in different areas and most are not experts in all areas. So be sure to ask your friend or family member which procedure they had with the doctor they are referring you to.
  • Testimonials – Asking a doctor for testimonials from previous patients will help you understand what qualities others liked about him.

You should also consider scheduling consultations with numerous doctors in order to find the best one for you. Doctors may have different techniques that yield different risks, recovery time and results, and it is worth it to weigh all of your options. It is important that you find a doctor that you are comfortable with and trust.

Doctors are people too

Going to the doctor can often times be daunting. Not only are you nervous about finding out whether or not you are healthy, but you also can be afraid that the doctor will judge you on your health, or more likely unhealthy, habits. However, you need to remember, doctors are people too!

Doctors, just like the rest of us, have their own bad habits and are not here to judge us. You should not be embarrassed when you are discussing your health habits with your doctor.

In fact, they appreciate when you tell the truth about your bad habits instead of keeping them a secret. When a doctor knows your true habits, they will be able to better diagnose you and offer the proper treatment options.

Furthermore, you should not fret over discussing “embarrassing” problems, like bodily functions, with doctors. Anything you say will not surprise the doctor. Most likely your doctor has treated several other patients with the same problem.

Remember your doctor is a regular person just like you and you should tell him the truth so you can get the most out of your visits to the doctor’s office!

Hemorrhoid prevention tips

 

Hemorrhoids are a very common health problem, in which a lump or mass of tissue in the anus contains enlarged blood vessels. They are caused by an increase in abdominal pressure.

People usually experience hemorrhoids because of:

  • Pregnancy
  • Frequent constipation
  • Obesity
  • Persistent diarrhea
  • Rushing to complete a bowel movement

Additionally, hemorrhoids are likely to develop in individual who do not get enough fiber in their diet or who d not exercise frequently. These poor diet and exercise habits can lead to constipation and straining during bowel movements, which cause or inflame the hemorrhoid.

Reducing your risk of suffering from hemorrhoids can be achieved by making a few simple changes to your diet and lifestyle. The following changes should help soften your stool so that you avoid the straining that leads to hemorrhoids:

  • Increase your fiber intake. You should aim to have about 25 – 30 grams of fiber a day to decrease the risk of constipation.
  • Stay hydrated. Drink at least 6 – 8 glasses of water every day to keep your stool soft.
  • Exercise regularly. Staying active helps prevent constipation and reduces pressure on the veins.
  • Go to the bathroom as soon as you have the urge to have a bowel movement. If you wait to go to the bathroom the stool can become dry and harder to pass.

The importance of knowing your family’s health history

Having a good understanding of your family’s health history is essential in disease prevention. Many of the most common and fatal disease can be hereditary, including heart disease, cancer and diabetes.

Knowing your risks allows you take the right lifesaving steps. Together, you and your doctor will be able to take the right precautions to lower your risk of suffering from an illness that a family member has suffered from. Here are some of the key things you should know about your family health:

  • Medical history of relatives on both sides of your family.
  • The age at which a family member’s health problem began.
  • The races and countries of origins of family members.

Learning about patterns or common illnesses in your family will better prepare you to take early steps to reduce the risk of developing those diseases. Preventative measures can include making simple changes that prompt a healthier lifestyle or receiving appropriate medical screenings early and often.