Making the Most
of Every
Doctor Visit
Getting the most from the doctor visits means helping a person with Parkinson’s take an active role in their care. You can help by:
Preparing questions before the visit
Asking questions during the visit
Taking notes
Giving the doctor accurate observations you’ve made
Making sure the patient follows the doctor's advice.
Before the Doctor Visit
Download, print and use the Doctor Visit Worksheet (PDF) to help you remember the most important healthcare questions, to list current medicines and to take notes during the visit. Fill out the checklist before the appointment, and then take it when you and the patient visit the doctor.
At the Doctor's Office
At the doctor's office, help the doctor understand the patient’s current health status by providing detailed information. This is the time to discuss current medicines and any changes in the patient’s lifestyle (for example, diet, exercise, or telling the doctor if the patient uses alcohol or tobacco).
Also remember to take good notes you can refer to later as you help the patient follow the doctor’s advice.
Prescription REQUIP XL is not for everyone. REQUIP XL may cause you to fall asleep or feel very sleepy during normal activities such as driving; or to faint or feel dizzy, nauseated, or sweaty when you stand up. Tell your doctor if you experience these or the following problems, or if you drink alcohol or are taking other medicines that make you drowsy. Side effects may include nausea, dizziness, drowsiness or sleepiness, headache, and sudden uncontrolled movements (dyskinesia). Increase or decrease in blood pressure and heart rate may occur. Hallucinations may occur at any time during treatment. Also tell your doctor if you experience new or increased gambling, sexual, or other intense urges while taking REQUIP XL. REQUIP XL may increase the side effects of L-dopa. Most patients were not bothered enough to stop taking REQUIP XL.