Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Asking questions can help you have a productive discussion with your doctor. Take some time to consider any questions or thoughts you have before each visit. Being prepared can help ensure you won’t leave your doctor’s office with unanswered questions. You’ll find that the feedback you receive can help you make the best decisions for your health.

To help get an accurate diagnosis of your condition, you should speak directly with your doctor. These questions are not a substitute for information provided to you by a healthcare provider.

To make sure you get the most out of your doctor visit, make sure to ask the following questions:

• What is my current blood pressure, and what is my goal?
• Can I have my blood pressure reading written down for me?
• Are we doing enough to keep my blood pressure under control? If not, what else should I be doing?
• What do my blood pressure numbers mean, and what is a healthy range for my numbers?
• Am I overweight? If so, what is my ideal weight?
• If I do need to lose weight, could you suggest a diet that could also help lower my blood pressure?
• Even if I don’t need to lose weight, is there a recommended healthy eating plan I should follow to help lower my blood pressure?
• What level of physical activity would be appropriate for me?
• What are the generic and brand names of my blood pressure medication?
• I am on more than one medication for high blood pressure. How do my different medications work, and why do I need more than one?
• Are there other medications available if I am not satisfied with my current medication?
• Taking into account any allergies or other medications I’m taking, what are the possible side effects of my medication?
• What is the best time of day to take my blood pressure medicine?
• Am I required to take this medication with food?
• Are there any foods, beverages, or dietary supplements I should avoid while taking this medication?
• What should I do if I forget to take my blood pressure medicine on time?

Next: Hypertension resources