At the doctor
You are the best person to help your doctor understand how your symptoms affect you. Remember that health professionals are still learning about long COVID. There is still a lot we don’t know.
Your doctor may ask you:
what health conditions you had before you got COVID
about your symptoms after having COVID-19
if you had a COVID test
if you are finding everyday things difficult
Your doctor may examine you to find out more about:
any physical symptoms you have
if you are having problems thinking or remembering things
how you are managing with things you do every day like work, education, and travel
if you can look after yourself
if you feel lonely
if there are changes in how you feel or how you behave
Your doctor may explain:
how to look after your symptoms
what to expect when you are recovering from your illness
Your tests could include:
blood tests
measuring your blood pressure and heart rate
a test that checks if you find it difficult to exercise, for example a one-minute sit-to-stand test
a chest X-ray if you are finding it difficult to breathe.
Remember to tell your doctor if you are feeling stressed or anxious. They can get you mental health support.
When you are going to see a doctor, there are a few things you can do to make the most of your visit. For more information about preparing for your medical appointment, you can visit the Better Health Channel.
List Your Healthcare Providers
Prepare a list of your current and past doctors/other health professionals and your current and past medical conditions, especially if you are seeing a new healthcare provider.
Write down your medical history
There are specific things you may want to do to discuss long COVID with your doctor.
For example:
the date you noticed the original COVID-19 illness and/or your most recent positive COVID-19 test, if known
a list of treatments, including anti-viral medicines and tests you have had in relation to your long COVID symptoms. This may include things like blood tests and X-rays
any allergies you have
any recent health check-ups, stays in the hospital, medical treatments, and visits to other doctors
The health problems your family members have had.
Record your symptoms
If you have any symptoms, write down:
when they started
how the symptoms affect your activities, including challenges to your day-to-day life like work and study
how often do symptoms occur
how you have been feeling emotionally
try to describe examples of your best and worst days
chose your most important complaints about your symptoms, and write them down
List Your Medications
Prepare a list of medications, vitamins and any traditional medicines you are taking. Most doctors will ask you to provide this information at each appointment. Bringing your list with you will help keep track.
Talk with a Family Member or Friend
Your friend or family member can attend your appointment with you. They can help you take notes and remember what was discussed at the appointment while it is still fresh in your mind. Or you can discuss your appointment with a family member or friend immediately before and after you see your healthcare provider.
Translated medical glossaries
Glossaries explain in a simple way what complicated words mean. These glossaries are from the Centre for Culture, Ethnicity, and Health (CEH) in Victoria. They are designed to help you understand the technical terms related to mental health services in Victoria. They may also help the work of interpreters in this area. They are available in English as well as in languages other than English. You can access the glossary about seeing a doctor or specialist in English and other languages here, and the one about mental health here.
More Resources
This booklet from Scotland is available in an Easy-Read version and a more detailed version. These booklets help people to understand how doctors can help you, and how to manage your symptoms at home. These documents were created in the UK, so some information about health organisations will be different in Australia.
