Once you get an appointment with one of our expert physicians, you should take some time preparing for your appointment. Here are some helpful tips courtesy of the Mayo Clinic:

What you can do

1. Write down any signs and symptoms you've had, and for how long.
2. Write down your key medical information, including any other health problems and the names of all of your medications. It will also be important to share any family history of heart disease or sudden death with your doctor.
3. Find a family member or friend who can come with you to the appointment, if possible. Someone who accompanies you can help remember what the doctor says.
4. Write down the questions you want to be sure to ask your doctor.

• What is likely causing my signs and symptoms?
• Are there any other possible causes for these signs and symptoms?
• What tests are needed?
• Should I see a specialist?

Questions to ask  a cardiologist or electrophysiologist include:

• Do I have long QT syndrome? What type?
• What is my risk of complications from this condition?
• What treatment approach do you recommend?
• If the first treatment doesn't work, what will you recommend next?
• If you're recommending medications, what are the possible side effects?
• If you're recommending surgery, what type of procedure is most likely to be effective in my case? Why?
• What should I expect from my recovery and rehabilitation after surgery?
• Will I need frequent exams and lifelong treatment for this condition?
• What emergency signs and symptoms of long QT syndrome should I be aware of?
• Should I tell my friends, teachers and co-workers that I have this condition?
• What activity restrictions will I need to follow?
• Could any dietary changes help me manage this condition?
• What medicines should I avoid?
• What is my long-term outlook with treatment?
• Will it be safe for me to become pregnant in the future?
• What is the risk that my future children would have this defect?
• Should I meet with a genetic counselor?

In addition to the questions that you've prepared to ask your doctor, don't hesitate to ask questions during your appointment if you don't understand something.

What to expect from your doctor

A doctor or cardiologist who sees you or your child for possible SADS Condition may ask a number of questions, including:

• What are your symptoms?
• When did you first begin experiencing symptoms?
• Have your symptoms gotten worse over time?
• Do strong emotions trigger your symptoms, such as excitement, anger or surprise?
• Does exercise bring on your symptoms?
• Does being startled — such as by a doorbell or phone ringing — trigger your symptoms?
• Do your symptoms include feeling lightheaded or dizzy?
• Have you ever fainted?
• Have you ever had a seizure?
• Do your symptoms include a fluttering sensation in your chest?
• Do you gasp in your sleep that you're aware of?
• Have you been diagnosed with any other medical conditions?
• Are you aware of any history of heart problems in your family?
• Have any first-degree relatives — parent, sibling or child — ever died unexpectedly, such as from drowning, or died suddenly without explanation?
• What medications are you currently taking, including over-the-counter and prescription drugs as well as vitamins and supplements?
• Have you ever used recreational drugs? If so, which ones?
• What is your typical daily diet?
• Do you use caffeine? How much?
• Do you have any children? Are you planning any future pregnancies?
  

Free Tools

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, supports research that helps people make informed decisions and improves the quality of health care and offers free resources to help you get the most from a medical appointment. 

• Questions to Ask Your Doctor lets you make a list of questions that you can bring to your medical appointments and gives you tips on talking with your doctor.

• Consumers & Patients page links to consumer information on staying healthy, getting high-quality health care, and more.