Questions to ask your doctor

Questions to ask your doctor (.pdf)
Download a print-friendly version of questions you might ask your doctor.

Prepare for your appointment

The first step in finding relief from GERD is seeking help from your primary care physician. To help you get the most out of your appointment, we have compiled examples of questions you may ask your physician.

Questions about gastroesophageal reflux disease

• Do you think I have GERD?
• What tests are done to confirm or rule out GERD?
• How serious is my condition? Am I at risk for additional complications?
• Can something else be causing my symptoms?
• Are there any other symptoms that I can expect? Any symptoms I should report to you immediately?
• What lifestyle or diet changes can I make to improve my condition?
• What are the treatment options for GERD?
• Does my medical history limit any of my treatment options?
• Will over-the-counter medicines help? If so, which would you recommend?
• Would prescribed medications be better than over-the-counter medications?
• How long should I expect to take this medication?
• Should I be referred to a gastroenterologist (GI)?
• Am I at risk for Barrett’s esophagus?
• Should I consider testing for Barrett’s esophagus?
• What can I expect from those tests?
• Will you do the tests or will I need to be referred to a specialist?
• Will I need regular exams in the future? If so, how often and for how long?
• How much do the tests cost? Are they typically covered by my insurance?
• Am I at risk for esophageal cancer?

Medication questions

• Can you explain why this medication is right for me?
• How does it work? Will I be able to tell if it is working?
• Will this medicine cure me?
• How much will this medication cost?
• Will my insurance cover it?
• Will I need to take this prescription medicine long-term? If so, how long?
• What will happen if I don't take it?
• Can I expect side effects? Are there any that I should report to you immediately?
• What should I do if I miss a dose?
• Should I be concerned about taking this with my other medications?
• What signs should I look for if my medications are interacting with each other?
• How long should I expect to take the medication?