Receiving a diagnosis can be a life-changing event. Knowing how to move forward can help you cope with a new diagnosis and make the best decisions for your health.
What to Do After Receiving a Diagnosis
After receiving a diagnosis, it is important to:
- Learn about your condition – Resources like Cleveland Clinic’s publications can provide you with more information about your particular condition.
- Get a second opinion – You may want to seek a second opinion from another healthcare provider to ensure that the diagnosis is correct.
- Make treatment decisions – Once you have a confirmed diagnosis, you and your healthcare team can work together to develop a treatment plan.
Managing stress and anxiety after receiving a diagnosis is also important. Talking to a counselor or therapist can help you cope with your emotions and develop a positive outlook. Additionally, a second opinion from a top specialist can provide the peace of mind you need during this time.
Cancer Diagnoses
If you receive a cancer diagnosis, you will likely need to begin treatment right away. Treatment for cancer may include surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. Your doctor will discuss your treatment options with you and make recommendations based on the type of cancer you have and how far it has progressed.
Heart Issues
Cardiovascular disease is a broad term that covers any medical condition that affects the heart or blood vessels. If you receive a diagnosis of a heart condition, you may need to undergo further testing to determine the severity of the condition. Treatment for heart conditions can range from lifestyle changes to surgery.
Neurological Disorders
A neurological disorder is any medical condition that affects the brain, spinal cord, or nerves. Common neurological disorders include:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Dementia
- Epilepsy
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson’s disease
Treatment for neurological disorders varies depending on the specific condition. Treatment may include medication, therapy, or surgery.
Musculoskeletal Disorders
Musculoskeletal disorders are medical conditions that affect the bones, joints, or muscles. Common musculoskeletal disorders include:
- Arthritis
- Osteoporosis
- Tendinitis
If you receive a diagnosis of a musculoskeletal disorder, treatment will depend on the specific condition. Treatment may include medication, physical therapy, or surgery.
How a Medical Second Opinion Can Confirm or Change Your Diagnosis
If your diagnosis is complex or you want to explore all of your treatment options, you may want to get a medical second opinion. A medical second opinion is when you see another doctor for a second opinion on your diagnosis and treatment options.
The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic has a revolutionary new avenue for patients to receive an expert second opinion on any diagnosis. Through virtual second opinions, patients can receive recommendations on their diagnosis and treatment plan from a world-renowned physician without ever having to leave their homes.
Get Started with The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic
Our team does all of the work of gathering records and matching you with the right specialist for your medical second opinion. Cleveland Clinic’s 3,500 specialists in more than 550 subspecialties have seen conditions like yours before—and they know what works.
A medical second opinion from The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic involves an expert review of your medical records, a one-on-one virtual consultation with a specialist, and a comprehensive written report with recommendations for your next steps.
After you receive a medical diagnosis, a second opinion can provide much-needed peace of mind. You’ll be able to move forward with confidence knowing that you’ve explored all of your options.
