Hormonal imbalances can be difficult to diagnose and manage. Usually, this process involves an array of blood tests, but it also involves consultations with a doctor, during which you discuss your symptoms and how they are impacting your life. The consultation part of the diagnosis can be done via telemedicine if you prefer. Here are some tips for telemedicine consultations about hormonal imbalances.
Keep a journal of your symptoms beforehand.
Many people with hormonal imbalances have a wide array of symptoms. Many even have symptoms that they don't realize are symptoms until they tell their doctor about them. When you're having a telemedicine visit, your doctor won't be looking at your body in person, which means they will be even more dependent on your descriptions of symptoms in order to make a diagnosis. You can make sure those descriptions are more complete by keeping a journal of your symptoms for at least a few days before the telemedicine visit. Email this journal record to your doctor so they can review it before your visit.
Schedule your visit when you think you might have a flare-up.
This mostly applies to women who believe their hormonal imbalances may be associated with changes in their menstrual cycle. If there is a time during your cycle when you know you're more likely to experience symptoms, schedule your telemedicine visit during that time. When you're currently experiencing your symptoms to the fullest, you'll be better able to describe them to your doctor as they are fresh in your mind. You're less likely to forget about certain symptoms if they are currently bothering you.
Get tests beforehand, if possible.
If your doctor gives you the option of having blood tests prior to your telemedicine visit, take them up on the offer. This way, the doctor can review your blood levels of various hormones before they meet with you. This may not tell you exactly what the problem is, but it should give them a better idea of what to focus on. They'll be able to ask you more targeted questions during your visit. If you don't get a blood test until after your initial visit, then you may end up needing more than one visit.
If you're dealing with symptoms that you believe may be due to a hormonal imbalance, then you should see a doctor. Seeing one via telemedicine is a great solution, especially if you follow the tips above. Contact a doctor who offers telemedicine hormone imbalance consultations to learn more.
