What you can do

1 • Write down your symptoms, including any that seem unrelated to kidney stones.

2 • Make a list of all your medications, as well as any vitamins or other supplements that you take.

3 • Take your wife or partner along, if possible. Your partner can help you remember something that you missed or forgot during doctor's appointments.

4 • Write down questions to ask your doctor.

Your time with your doctor is limited, so preparing a list of questions will help you make the most of your time together. List your questions from most important to least important in case time runs out. Some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• What is most likely causing my erection problems?
• Other than the most likely cause, what are other possible causes?
• What kinds of tests do I need?
• Is my erectile dysfunction most likely temporary or chronic?
• What's the best treatment?
• What are the alternatives to the primary approach that you're suggesting?
• I have these other health conditions. How can I best manage them together?
• Are there any restrictions that I need to follow?
• Should I see a specialist? What will that cost, and will my insurance cover seeing a specialist?
• Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you're prescribing me?
• Are there any brochures or other printed material that I can take home with me? What websites do you recommend visiting?

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions. Being ready to answer them may allow more time to cover other points you want to address. Your doctor may ask:

• What other health problems or chronic conditions do you have?
• Have you had any other sexual problems?
• Have you had any changes in sexual desire?
• Do you get erections during masturbation, with a partner or while you sleep?
• Are there any problems in your relationship with your sexual partner?
• Does your partner have any sexual problems?
• Are you anxious, depressed or under stress?
• Have you ever been diagnosed with a mental health condition? If so, do you currently take any medications or get psychological counseling (psychotherapy) for it?
• When did you first begin noticing sexual problems?
• Do your erectile problems occur only sometimes, often or all of the time?
• What medications do you take, including any herbal remedies or supplements?
• Do you drink? If so, how much?
• Do you use any illegal drugs?
• What, if anything, seems to improve your symptoms?
• What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms?

Don't hesitate to ask questions during your appointment when you don't understand something.