By Clare Mullin

Ordinary people sometimes struggle to communicate with doctors about their medical problems. But for people with neurological problems, communication can be an even more overwhelming task.

I am a senior and have had epilepsy, or seizure disorder, my entire life. I suffered a head injury at a gym in 1992, which caused traumatic brain injury that exacerbated the seizure condition. I have found that education and communication are truly important, especially for a senior patient.

Here are some things I have found that a patient can do to make the communication process the most productive it can be. In addition to the following list, it is wise to request a written explanation or at least the spelling of terms concerning your diagnosis so you can do further research at a library or on the Internet.

Prepare for visits:

• Write a list of dated symptoms with related activities.

• List your pain and stress levels.

• Number or color-code this list to keep it organized.

• You can take along a hand-held recorder, but generally a notepad will work as well.

During the doctor’s visit:

• Take your list, including a summary, to review with the doctor.

• Ask short, simple questions and listen attentively.

• Make brief comments guided by your list.

After the visit:

• Maintain a diary guided by your coded or numbered list.

• Review patient education leaflets with pharmacists.

• Follow up with appointments and pending test results.

• Review medical file with pending tab for test results.

Clare Mullin, speaker and organizational color-coding consultant, offers workshops and private consultation. E-mail her at 6colors@sbcglobal.net or call (408) 203-8232.