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Preparing for your appointment
By Mayo Clinic staffIf you suspect you have mononucleosis, you're likely to start by first seeing your family doctor. Because appointments can be brief, and because there's often a lot of ground to cover, it's a good idea to be well prepared for your appointment. Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment, and what to expect from your doctor.
What you can do
- Write down any symptoms you're experiencing, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason for which you scheduled the appointment.
- Write down key personal information, including any major stresses, recent life changes or exposure to anyone with mononucleosis.
- Bring a list of all medications, as well as any vitamins or supplements, that you're taking.
- Write down questions to ask your doctor.
Your time with your doctor is limited, so preparing a list of questions ahead of time will help you make the most of your time together. List your questions from most important to least important in case time runs out. For mononucleosis, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:
- What is likely causing my symptoms or condition?
- Other than the most likely cause, what are other possible causes for my symptoms or condition?
- What kinds of tests do I need?
- I have these other health conditions. How can I best manage them?
- Are there any restrictions that I need to follow?
- Do I need to stay home from work or school and for how long?
- When can I return to strenuous activities and contact sports?
- Are there any medications I need to avoid with mononucleosis?
- Are there any brochures or other printed material that I can take home with me? What Web sites do you recommend?
In addition to the questions that you've prepared to ask your doctor, don't hesitate to ask questions during your appointment at any time that you don't understand something.
What to expect from your doctor
Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions. Being ready to answer them may reserve time to go over points you want to spend more time on. Your doctor may ask:
- When did you first begin experiencing symptoms?
- Have you been exposed to anyone with mononucleosis?
- Have your symptoms been continuous, or occasional?
- How severe are your symptoms?
- What, if anything, seems to improve your symptoms?
- What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms?
What you can do in the meantime
If you think you have mononucleosis and are waiting for your appointment, get adequate rest and drink fluids. These are the primary treatments for mono. To avoid spreading the infection, don't kiss anyone or share items such as glasses, utensils, foods or drinks. Avoid strenuous activity and contact sports.
