You are having symptoms you have never had before. You think it might be becoming serious and worry is setting in. You seek help and receive a diagnosis. What does this diagnosis mean for you? What treatment(s) will you receive? How will it affect your life? The questions go on...consciously and sub conscientiously.

Do you leave it up to the doctor to tell you everything he thinks you need to know, recommend a treatment plan and hope for the best? Or, do you get involved and make sure the way you proceed is right for you? Your doctor will base his recommendation on his knowledge bank about the illness and what he remembers about you, the new information you provide and what works best for most people... unless you give him reason to do otherwise. Here are six steps you can take as you make decisions in partnership with your doctor:

1. Seek to understand your illness. Become as aware as you can of your symptoms and how you feel. Document your symptoms as they occur, actions you've taken and the results of each action.
2. Be as clear as possible in the descriptions you give your healthcare providers. Learn the most effective language you can to communicate your symptoms and concerns. Doing research can often help you find the right words.
3. Research and understand how the body works, your medical condition / illness and your treatment options. Use reliable resources.
4. Be assertive. Don't be afraid to ask questions. The more you learn, the better your questions will be. If you don't understand the answers or don't get answers that make sense to you, persist with your research and questions until you do.
5. Be actively involved in finding the right treatment plan for you. Be sure to discuss all treatment options, ask your doctor for her recommendation and the reasoning for it, and how the treatment will effect other conditions and / or medications you take.

It never hurts to get a second opinion - some insurance companies require you do so for certain conditions. You may not realize it, but the key to a timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan often depends on you and your willingness to do your part.