Let your doctor know exactly what you're feeling, and any changes in your condition. It might help to keep a chart of your symptoms to bring to your next office visit. That lets the doctor see how things change based on other factors, like time of day, meals or stressful situations. If you don't feel your doctor is being responsive to your concerns, let him or her know. You can also do some of your own research.
Reference books are available that explain a number of health conditions.
For those who have computers, the Internet contains a lot of information on health. For example, you can find a transcript of Healthwatch shows on the Internet site of UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.