YOU OR YOUR LOVED ONE HAS BEEN NEWLY DIAGNOSED

 Making good decisions about your health is very important for both your quality of life and your survival. To help you, here is a list of questions you can ask your doctor. These questions will help you better understand your cancer and your treatment options.

You can also visit trusted websites and support groups, but most importantly, talk openly with your doctor and healthcare team. 

Feel free to print this list and bring it to your appointment.

 Questions to Ask Your Doctor

• Am I sure that I have multiple myeloma? 
• What type do I have? 
• Can I get a second opinion? 
• How many myeloma patients are treated at this center? 
• What stage is my cancer? What does that stage mean? 
• What symptoms should I expect? 
• What other health problems can this cause? 
• Can you explain my test results in simple terms? 
• Do I need to start treatment right away? 
• What treatment do you recommend, and why? 
• What are the benefits and risks? 
• Are there other treatment options? 
• Are there any clinical trials I can join? 
• How will treatment affect my daily life (work, exercise, chores)?

Appointments can be short and full of information, so it helps to be prepared:

• Write down any symptoms you have and when they started 
• List your medical conditions 
• Bring a list of all medications, vitamins, and supplements you take 

It’s also helpful to bring a family member or friend. They can help remember information and support you.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help and surround yourself with support. Try to stay calm. Stress and anxiety can make discussions more difficult.

• Who is on my healthcare team, and what does each person do? 
• What side effects might I have (short-term and long-term)? 
• How long does recovery usually take? 
• How often will I need appointments or tests? 
• How long might remission last? 
• Will treatment affect my ability to have children? 
• What support services are available? 
• How can my family and friends help me? 
• Where can I find more information? 
• Who can help with financial concerns? 
• Who should I contact if I have questions or problems?

Many people—patients and caregivers—have gone through this experience. It’s normal to feel confused or overwhelmed at first.

If you want to talk to someone who understands, support groups can connect you with people who have been in your situation. They can:

• Listen and offer support 
• Help you understand your options 
• Speak up for you if you’re not feeling well 
• Guide you through the process 

Support groups aren’t for everyone, but they can be very helpful. If you want, you can reach out and talk to someone who has been through this before.