Certified Natural Health Geek: 5 Ways to Partner with your Doctor and take Control of your Health

For many people, the thought of taking control of their own health is a frightening proposition. We often are very comfortable turning over complete control of our health and well-being to another and less comfortable with determining and weighing specific options to maintain or regain our own health ourselves. This is evidenced in our lack of overall knowledge about our condition, the impact and efficacy of suggested treatments, and/or the things that we could do that would serve to either help or hinder our situation. Whether you are consulting a traditional medical doctor or an alternative medicine practitioner, you should become actively involved in the process in order to determine the best decisions for your health. Below, find 5 things that you can do now to work with your health-care provider and take charge of your medical health.

Prepare for your doctor visit; write down all of your symptoms. Face it. We all get nervous when visiting the doctor. It's easy to forget things. But if you have a list, you'll be sure to inform your medical doctor or holistic practitioner of any symptoms or reactions that you are experiencing.

Understand your diagnosis or evaluation results. At each visit, come prepared with a pencil and paper to write down all key information. Ask questions! Remember, the doctor is there to help you. Find out about your prognosis, alternative treatments or therapies, side effects, etc.

Research your condition and treatment. Use the internet or your local library to research and gain a better understanding of where you stand with your health. In addition to medical databases online where you can research both pharmaceutical drugs and herbs, there are also online support groups for every condition imaginable.

Get a second opinion. Doctors aren't perfect. If you have followed the previous steps, you should have a better understanding of your condition. You are in a better position to discuss treatment options with someone who may come from a different perspective than your initial doctor.

Incorporate preventative health care measures into your daily life. Address your diet, rest, and exercise from a holistic perspective. The old saying, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, is quite apropos when it comes to preserving your health. Staying healthy minimizes your trips to the doctor.