Preparing for your appointment

By Mayo Clinic Staff

You're likely to start by seeing your family doctor or a general practitioner who might refer you to a rheumatologist, infectious disease specialist or other specialist.

Here's some information to help you prepare for you appointment.

What you can do

  • Create a list of medications, vitamins and supplements you take.
  • Take a family member or friend along, if possible. Someone who accompanies you might remember something that you missed or forgot.
  • Write down questions to ask your doctor.

For Lyme disease, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

  • What is likely causing my symptoms?
  • What tests do I need?
  • What is the best course of action?
  • What alternatives are there to the primary approach you're suggesting?
  • Are there restrictions I need to follow?
  • Should I see a specialist?
  • Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you're prescribing?

Don't hesitate to ask other questions.

What to expect from your doctor


  • When did your symptoms start?
  • Did a tick bite you?
  • Have you been in wooded areas? If so, where?
  • Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional?
  • How severe are your symptoms?
  • What, if anything, seems to improve your symptoms?
  • What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms?
April 03, 2016