When I see patients for the first time we go through an ‘Initial Intake’ and ‘Evaluation’ which includes family history, and about 45 minutes of interrogation and grilling in order to determine the best treatment plan. During this time I am largely dependent on a persons memory and recollection of their own health history. Fortunately Traditional Chinese Medicine has tools (such as tongue diagnosis, observation, pulse diagnosis etc.) that are objective that do not rely on memory.
Pretty much everyone forgets dates, medications, symptoms, and details of their own health. This is why I highly recommend you keep all of your lab reports, symptoms, treatments, and anything health related for you and every family member (including the 4 legged furry ones!) in a simple binder.
Most doctors will give you copies of your lab results, x-rays, scans, and so forth and even if it just seems like a lot of gibberish it will be really useful down the road.
Along with keeping your records write down in point form symptoms that you are experiencing and the date.
- June 1, 2004 – Fell of high horse, hurt right ankle
- Feb 3, 2010- Food poisoning in at Aunt Marsha’s Church potluck
- Dec 11, 2006- Flu after office Christmas party, missed 3 days of work
- August 14, 2009- Hives on arms and face during outdoor Lawn bowling tournament
So, grab any old binder and begin your Health File today!
~Think Vitality!~