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 If you have bladder symptoms and decide to seek doctor's advice, a practical approach for getting the best out of the consultation is to go prepared. The aim of the discussion with your doctor will be to establish a diagnosis and a treatment plan. Going into the consultation armed with some relevant information about your situation will help this process. Your GP will have your medical records, so should be aware of any other unrelated symptoms your have or treatments you are undergoing. This should be part of the review. Tell your doctor about any prescriptions you might have received through a hospital or any over-the-counter medications, vitamins or dietary supplements you might be taking. Keep a note of how much fluid you take every day, what type and when you consume these. If you are drinking a litre of fluid near bedtime, it may be no wonder that you are getting up during the night!  The amount of caffeine you consume is also important as caffeine can be a bladder irritant. It is a good idea to keep a diary over a few days before your doctor.s appointment noting your symptoms. Have you felt a sudden uncontrollable urge to urinate; are you getting up to go to the toilet several times a night; have you experienced leaking and in what circumstances? The more details you can provide, the better. Overactive bladder tends to present as an uncontrollable urge, while leaking is more likely to be related to pelvic floor weakness. Your diary should list the nature of bladder symptoms and note each time you urinate during the day and night. Noting other symptoms such as pain, burning or blood upon urination is important. Having as much information as possible for the first GP visit will greatly assist in making a diagnosis. A physical examination, urinalysis and in some cases, hospital tests, will help to complete the picture. |
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