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Suggestions for 1st LLMD Appt

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Lyme Disease
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Posted 7/23/2014 7:25 PM (GMT -5)
My 1st LLMD appt is next week, 7/30. I am L positive via IGeneX test, and probably have some co's, but haven't tested for those. I know this dr will be open to treating me. The appt is only 45 min. long so I am going into this appt  interviewing this doctor and need to make the most out of the short time available.

Please give me suggestions on anything you can think would be helpful:

what to ask,

what to think about,

what to look for,

what points to touch on...

I used to be able to prepare for everything I needed to do in life, but with the issue dealing with memory, and brain functions, I'm really at a loss mentally, so I'd thought I'd ask you for help.

Many thanks and I look forward to all of your insights.

Posted 7/23/2014 9:22 PM (GMT -5)
Truthfully,

For the same doctor - I wrote everything down. Basically 10-12 sentences in a paragraph about past history,exposure to ticks, why I eventually thought it was lyme. Reactions to antibiotics, herxes and possible other reactions.

Then I listed my symptoms with top ten worst symptoms especially that I was concerned about.

Then I listed all of the supplements I was on.

Then I listed my top concerns and questions.

After the first appointment, a bit lengthy - this was usually two pages long (he has reading glasses I think so larger font is a bit better) I was pretty rough when I first went. I knew I wouldn't be able to talk without blubbering or missing something. Having everything typed out and reviewed for the appointments made it really easy on both the doctor and I. I kept a copy for myself on the computer and it also really helped to see what symptoms had improved, new ones that had popped up etc. etc.

I have to be honest with you, I was really skeptical with this doctor at first (I mean after all, how could WE not be, right?) It really wasn't until the 3rd appointment or so that I started trusting him. He is still relatively new to lyme (started treating 2009 (?)) world but learning a lot.

I wish you luck!

~beth
Posted 7/24/2014 8:55 AM (GMT -5)
Thanks, Beth!

Anyone else have any other suggestions, questions, personal experience?
Posted 7/25/2014 6:43 PM (GMT -5)
My LLMD really appreciated the brief timeline I wrote up of when I started to get sick and the treatments I took and my reactions to the treatments. (I saw a different doctor for many years.) I also brought copies of all the tests/labs that were run from the previous year. He was thrilled.

I also think it might be helpful to print out a list of Lyme symptoms and highlight the ones you have/had.
Posted 7/25/2014 6:44 PM (GMT -5)
I also brought all my supplements and meds in their bottles.
Posted 7/27/2014 6:41 AM (GMT -5)
Thanks to all the great suggestions! I'm going to be equipted as best I am able, and hope for the best.

Other suggestions? Experiences that might help me in my upcoming appt.?

Again, thanks for all the help, as it really is appreciated.
Posted 7/27/2014 9:14 AM (GMT -5)
I just had my first appointment with my LLMD a few weeks ago. Journal or chart your symptoms rating them on a scale from 1-10 daily. I kept a chart I had made in Word which helped her see what was most troublesome at a glance. I also included any major changes that happened on particular days such as medications, diet, stressful events. This really helped her. I've continued to do it as I've started treatment to help pinpoint things that increase my symptoms.

Expect labs to be run afterward to look for coinfections so it would be good to drink plenty of water that day.

Consider bringing someone with you. I did bring my hubby with me to hear everything my doctor had to say and to take notes which helped a lot! I got a bit emotional and overwhelmed by everything she had to share. It was a lot to process but having someone else there to process things with later was super helpful.

Good luck and I hope it goes well!!!
Posted 7/27/2014 9:36 AM (GMT -5)
I too would suggest taking another adult along to help you listen and to take notes - you'd be amazed at how what someone else hears at the same appt!! Not to mention they can usually come up with questions that you may not think of.

Ask for a plan of treatment - not a timeline, but basically what they expect you will be doing. This can reduce treatment anxiety if you know somewhat of a game plan.

Find out how to handle urgent and emergency situations - do they believe in detoxing and herxing, or are you on your own if you start herxing bad? What if you have a reaction to a medication - do they expect you to call them before heading to the Emergency room, or call them and see if they can help you deal with it?

What about co-infections? Are they going to treat you for those?

What about supplements? Are there any supplements or immune building therapies they want you to be using?

Just a few of my thoughts.... :-)
Posted 7/27/2014 12:14 PM (GMT -5)
They took a TON of blood at the first appointment - bring healthy snacks and waters, maybe some fruit too.

Notebook and pen for notes.

I like the idea of bringing another adult, if you can. I've always been alone, but I think another set of eyes and ears would be helpful.
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