Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Go prepared. Leave informed.

Choose the tab that best describes your visit.

  • I'm in pain often and I need help.
  • I'm being treated for chronic pain, and this is a follow-up visit.
  • I suffer from chronic pain, and I'm sick or having problems.

I'm in pain often and I need help.

Reviewed by Nayana Ambardekar, MD on August 13, 2022

  1. What's causing my pain? Can the problem be treated to make the pain go away?
  2. Should I try over-the-counter pain medicine? What do you recommend?
  3. Would a prescription painkiller help? What are the risks and side effects?
  4. Are there other ways to ease pain, such as acupuncture or massage therapy?
  5. How long could this pain last?

I'm being treated for chronic pain, and this is a follow-up visit.

Reviewed by Nayana Ambardekar, MD on August 13, 2022

  1. Are my medications doing enough to control my pain?
  2. How long can I take the medications I'm using? Could I become addicted?
  3. Would I benefit from other pain relief techniques, such as relaxation or biofeedback?
  4. Can I safely exercise? What precautions should I take before doing physical activities?
  5. My condition is taking a toll on my family. What can I do to make it easier for all of us?

I suffer from chronic pain, and I'm sick or having problems.

Reviewed by Nayana Ambardekar, MD on August 13, 2022

  1. Could my problems be caused by a medical condition that hasn't been diagnosed?
  2. Are my symptoms caused by the pain medication I take?
  3. Should I try a different pain medication? Would an antidepressant or anti-anxiety medication help me?
  4. Should I see a pain specialist or other specialist?
  5. Should I join a support group for people with chronic pain?