I'm seeing a LLMD for the first time soon. Does anyone have any questions I should be asking? Or suggestions for the first visit? Thanks.
Posted by steve1906 (Member # 16206) on :
The number one thing to do on your 1st visit is>
Make a list of everything you'd like to talk about.
* When you got sick * ALL your symptoms * Any meds/alternatives you've been taking * Etc......
Your list is very important; most people always forget many things they wanted to talk about.
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
Ask him about his treatment protocols, if he tests and treats co-infections, what labs he uses and if he gets into complementary medicine (supplements, herbs) and if he tests for heavy metals, candida, hormones, thyroid and adrenals.
The best LLMD's cover all bases. If this one doesn't you might have to find an ACAM doc or NP to help you with the other stuff.
Good luck!
Posted by GretaM (Member # 40917) on :
Also, I suggest asking if there is a number or emergency contact protocol in case of side effects from abx or treatments.
"What if I have side effects from the antibiotics?"
"What if I have very bad diareha?"
"who do I contact from your office? And how soon until they will return my call/email?"
This is very important to know.
Also, be sure to grab a few office cards when you go. Keep one on your fridge, in your wallet, in your car, at work. If something happens, and you are unable to speak for yourself, the info is there for others.
Posted by jamielett (Member # 42657) on :
GretaM, are you saying that because of Herxing? That sounds scary...
Posted by GretaM (Member # 40917) on :
Oopsy. Didn't mean to scare you.
Herxing, or something totally non related-like a motor vehicle accident etc.
When I herx real bad it is hard for me to speak.
sometimes my brain is foggy. I've had where what the pharmacist wrote on the bottle, and my docs instructions have been different.
Having a business card there makes it easy to call the office to confirm abx instructions with the doc.
You'd be surprised how hard it is to look up a number or remember the docs name when you've got bad brain fog.
Just that kind thing.
Posted by jamielett (Member # 42657) on :
I understand. Thanks. I'll get some business cards. Also I have a support network.
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
And if the Dr doesn't recommend probiotics, you might want to find another Dr.
Posted by Judie (Member # 38323) on :
Do I take supplement/drug with food or away from food? If away, how far away before and after food?
Are there any supplements/drugs that should be taken away from each other?
Posted by jwick25 (Member # 15190) on :
If you've seen other doctors recently and have any test results that you can bring to the LLMD, that can be very helpful.
For example, I had seen a Rheumatologist prior to my first LLMD appointment. It was helpful to the LLMD that he was able to rule out Lupus, MS and other things from the get-go.
Good luck at your appointment!
Posted by beatlymedisease (Member # 42829) on :
Is LabCorp reliable for testing for co-infections or should I be using another company??
Posted by steve1906 (Member # 16206) on :
Is igenex expensive?
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
You can call them for pricing. The Western Blot for Lyme is around $250. Not sure on the coinfection testing. Get the basics.
Posted by beatlymedisease (Member # 42829) on :
I was already tested for Lyme through stony brook labs...
Posted by Crawgir1 (Member # 40229) on :
My LLMD sent me reading list of books, articles he wrote and all kinds of homework to do before our first appointment.
If you call his office, you could probably get some information to get you started at least. Some docs have a website with links to articles, which will give you an idea of the direction they will be heading.
Posted by beatlymedisease (Member # 42829) on :
Any other suggestions before I see that LLMD today? Everyone's suggestions so far have been great!
Posted by sparklyholiday (Member # 42456) on :
I don't have any suggestions, but let us know how it goes! Good luck!