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▶This article is the 185th installment of the “Learn TCM with Me” column. Thank you for your support and sharing! Learn a little every day, and health will always accompany you!
Previously, we learned about the precautions for consultations. Now, let’s learn what content to inquire about during a consultation.
1. General Information: General information includes name, gender, age, ethnicity, occupation, marital status, place of origin, current workplace, and address, which can serve as references for diagnosing diseases. General information should be detailed for follow-up and contact purposes.
2. Chief Complaint: The main reason for the patient’s visit. The patient states their most prominent or distressing symptoms and the duration of these symptoms during the consultation.
3. Present Illness History: The entire process of the disease from its onset to the time of consultation, including the evolution of the condition and all subjective symptoms experienced by the patient at the time of consultation.
4. Past Medical History: Previous illnesses, treatment situations, and outcomes; whether there have been surgeries, injuries, blood transfusions, and any allergies to vaccinations should also be noted.
5. Personal History: Personal lifestyle should be inquired about in detail, including diet, daily activities, mental state, life experiences, and childbirth, as well as events surrounding the birth of children.
6. Family History: Family illnesses are very important, as they can indicate hereditary or infectious conditions.
Author Profile
Duan Lingfang: Master’s degree, Associate Chief Physician. Expert in the Yunnan Provincial TCM Cultural Science Popularization Lecture Group, Director of the Yunnan Provincial Association of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Vice Chairman of the Yunnan Provincial Association of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Rheumatology, Member of the Yunnan Provincial Geriatrics and Deficiency Syndrome Committee, and Member of the Yunnan Women Physicians Association Geriatrics Branch.
Editor: Liu Wei Layout: Gao Haiyan