How to prepare for a doctor appointment when you have multiple symptoms

Urgent first. If something feels different from your usual symptoms, or you are worried it cannot wait, contact your doctor or emergency services rather than waiting for your appointment.

Step 1: choose your top three

You will not have time for everything. List all your symptoms, then pick the three that affect your life the most. Say them in the first minute.

Step 2: write a short timeline

For each of the three, write:

• When it started, and whether it comes and goes.
• What changed recently.
• How strong it is, from 0 to 10, on a typical day and on a bad day.
• What helps or makes it worse.

A dated timeline is easier to follow than memory. See our free symptom diary.

Step 3: bring the practical details

Your list of medicines and supplements, results of recent tests, and the names of other doctors involved.

Step 4: prepare your questions

Write 3 questions before you go. Our list of questions to ask your doctor is a starting point.

Step 5: before you leave

Ask: "What are the next steps, and when?" and "Can you write that down?" End with: "What is the most important thing I should remember from today?"

If your symptoms keep being dismissed

• Say specifically what you are asking for: a test, a referral, a follow-up date.
• Ask the doctor to note in your record that you raised the concern.
• Ask whether a second opinion or a referral to a specialist clinic would be useful.
• Bring someone with you if you can.