Joel Matembela siluvangi

Answers to patient questions

• Contraception & STD
  I am a 30yo man, my girlfriend was found positive for chlamydia, and I need to do a STD/STI checkup (haven't done one for a longtime, long before we started dating). What is the process? Where should I go (in Brussels)?

  • To get tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Brussels, you have several options. Here's a step-by-step guide to the process:
    
    1. Find a Testing Location
    2. Make an Appointment
    3. Attend Your Appointment
    4. Undergo Testing
    5. Receive Results
    6. Follow-Up and Treatment
    
    Remember that STI testing is confidential, and your privacy will be protected throughout the process. It's crucial to get tested regularly, especially if you have multiple sexual partners or engage in unprotected sex. If you have any questions or concerns about STI testing, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare... provider for guidance. Read more

    

    Joel Matembela siluvangi

• Blood sample
  Hello, I have inherited primary trombophilia. I should do regular check ups on yearly basis. I want to ask how is a process in Belgium. Do I need firstly visit a general doctor and ask general doctor to take a blood and to send to laboratory? I tried to find hematologist but I didnt found, I just found a blood testing centres. Thank you.

  • In Belgium, if you have inherited primary thrombophilia and require regular check-ups, you typically have a few options for how to proceed:
    
    Visit a General Practitioner (GP): You can start by scheduling an appointment with a general doctor (GP or "médecin généraliste" in French, "huisarts" in Dutch). Your GP can assess your condition, review your medical history, and discuss any concerns you may have regarding your thrombophilia. They can also order blood tests and refer you to a specialist if necessary.
    
    Specialist Referral: If your GP believes it is necessary or if you prefer, they can r...efer you to a hematologist or another specialist who is experienced in managing thrombophilia. Hematologists are doctors who specialize in disorders of the blood and bone marrow, including thrombophilia. Your GP can provide you with a referral letter and help you find a hematologist or specialist clinic.
    
    Blood Testing Centers: In some cases, you may be able to go directly to a blood testing center for routine blood tests, especially if you have a specific test that needs to be done regularly. However, if you require ongoing monitoring and management of your thrombophilia, it's advisable to involve a healthcare provider such as a GP or specialist who can oversee your care and interpret the test results in the context of your overall health.
    
    Regardless of which option you choose, it's essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your thrombophilia, any symptoms you may experience, and any family history of blood disorders. This will help ensure that you receive appropriate care and monitoring tailored to your individual needs. Read more

    

    Joel Matembela siluvangi

• General topics
  Hello. I have started to experience a lingering pain in my back on the right hand side. The pain seems to be located between my ribs and it restricts my mobility when I try to rotate/twist my upper body to the right. Heat packs seem to relieve the pain but only momentarily and even anti inflammatory do not help that much. Any advice on who I should see? This issue is starting to affect my quality of life. Many thanks.

  • It's crucial to have a healthcare professional evaluate your pain to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. Starting with your primary care physician is a good first step, and they can guide you to the right specialist if necessary. In the meantime, continue with heat therapy, gentle movements, and consider different pain relief options.

    

    Joel Matembela siluvangi