What you can do

These steps can help you make the most of your child's appointment:

• Write down any symptoms your child has had, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason for which you scheduled the appointment.
• Note when symptoms bother your child most — for example, if symptoms tend to get worse at certain times of the day; during certain seasons; when your child is exposed to cold air, pollen or other triggers; or when he or she is playing hard or participating in sports.
• Write down key personal information, including any major stresses or recent life changes your child has had.
• Make a list of medications, vitamins and supplements your child takes.
• Write down questions to ask the doctor.

Preparing a list of questions can help you make the most of the appointment. For asthma or asthma-like symptoms, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• Is asthma the most likely cause of my child's breathing problems?
• Other than the most likely cause, what else could be causing my child's symptoms?
• What tests does my child need?
• Is my child's condition likely temporary or chronic?
• What's the best treatment?
• What are the alternatives to the primary approach you're suggesting?
• My child has these other health conditions. How can we best manage them together?
• Are there any restrictions my child needs to follow?
• Should my child see a specialist?
• Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you're prescribing for my child?
• Are there brochures or other printed materials I can have? What websites do you recommend?

Don't hesitate to ask any other questions you have.