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  5 Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Providers If You Have Pulmonary Fibrosis

  Posted by Marta Ribeiro on November 1, 2018 at 7:31 pm

  

  When it comes to understanding pulmonary fibrosis, asking your healthcare providers questions you have is important. Unlike a non-credible source on the Internet or a friend of a friend who suffers from the same condition, your healthcare providers are trained to answer your questions, especially as they relate to your healthcare situation.

  According to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, here are a few questions you may consider asking:

  1. How will PF limit what I do?
  You, more than anyone, know your own body and how you feel in your usual environment. However, be sure to ask your doctors advice if you’re planning to take a trip that may involve a long car ride, high altitudes or other environmental aspects that are different from your usual routine.

  2. How should I proceed if I have a problem with my PF?
  If you have a chronic disease, then it is important to have an action plan. Ask how you should proceed if you have a problem and what steps to take. Who should you call? Where should you go? What should you do when a caregiver isn’t available? Who should you call if you have any concerns regarding your care? These are all important questions that your healthcare provider will be well-equipped to answer.

  3. When should I switch my treatment?
  You may need to change your treatment regimen throughout your journey. Diseases evolve and change rapidly and it is important to change with them. When you feel like the treatment you’re on is not making much of a difference or isn’t working well, you should discuss it with your healthcare provider so you can find an alternative. On the other hand, you may also want to switch treatments even if your treatment is working, especially if there are other options available that might be more suitable for you. The best way to keep yourself up to date on any new and improved treatments is to talk to your doctor.

  4. Can a treatment interact with my medication?
  The short answer is yes, it can. It’s key to speak with your healthcare providers to ensure this doesn’t happen. Always keep your team updated with all medications you’re taking regularly, even things you might not think are relevant, like over-the-counter medication, supplements or vitamins. This will help your doctors make sure that there are no harmful interactions with your medication.

  5. Should I enroll in a clinical trial?
  Choosing if you should or should not enroll in a clinical trial is a very personal decision. It may depend on many factors, including whether or not there are any other treatment choices available to you. If you’re interested, your healthcare provider will talk to you about the details of getting involved in a clinical trial. Are there any occurring in your area? Are they the right fit for you? Do you have other options? Is your current condition compatible with it? These are all things you will need to discuss with your medical team before you consider a clinical trial.

   

  How many of these questions did you ask you health provider? Did you ask anything else? If so, let us know. Share your experience below. 

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