What To Do If You Are Diagnosed With An Illness or Disease

Being told you have a serious illness or disease can be one of the most devastating and confusing times of your life. There is no absolute way to prepare for this, however your reaction to this news can make all the difference.

You need to first learn as much as you possibly can by asking questions and doing library and Internet research. This will help you understand your illness and the treatment options available. This allows you to have educated discussions with your physician and be an active part of your own health care team and the decision making process.

Bring a close friend or family member with you to appointments. Trying to process and understand all of the information you are given by doctors can be overwhelming. Another pair of ears will help. Later you can discuss the appointment and any information you may have missed that they caught. They can also offer emotional support during this difficult time.

Don't be afraid to discuss this with friends, neighbors and colleagues. You never know who else is experiencing the same illness, or knows someone who is, and may have very helpful advice and tips for you. You would be surprised at how many people are willing to help. Let them!

People will research and get several estimates and opinions from home improvement people, landscapers, and more, but people will go to ONE doctor and get ONE opinion and just follow along! Why do so much homework and research and investment into people who fix your homes or your cars, but do no investigating when it comes to someone who cares for your life?

Research your doctor and the hospital he/she has affiliations to. GET A SECOND OPINION - always! Or even a third if you have a complicated disease or problem. All good physicians will welcome a second opinion and want you to make the best decision for you.

Seek out legitimate organizations such as The American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association for additional information on your disease.  There are organizations now for almost every type of major illness and disease out there and they are able and willing to give you all sorts of information and medical contacts to help you deal with your illness. Check out support groups as well for some additional assistance and guidance.

To get more information on this specific topic, you can read the chapter in my book, "Medical Tips From the Inside...Things You Need to Know!" published by Merit Publishing International, available on amazon.com and where major books are sold.

We wrote the book for this particular reason - to make sure people take an active role in their own healthcare and prevent problems BEFORE they happen.