Inflammatory Bowel Disease – National Association For Continence

If you have noticed any of the symptoms listed above, talk to your doctor about your concerns. He or she may refer you to a specialist to treat your symptoms and to perform the necessary tests to determine if you do in fact have IBD.

Your doctor will want to hear about all your symptoms, any changes in medication, and any stressful life changes that may have recently happened. Be sure to write down all your questions before your visit so that you don’t forget them during your appointment.

To make sure you don’t overlook anything important during your consultation, take a couple of minutes to write down the following information so you can be certain that you’ll review it in person:

• Your symptoms. List anything that you believe may be a symptom of your condition, including how severe it is and how long you’ve been experiencing it.
  Even things that don’t seem like they’re obviously related to IBD are worth taking note of, because the disease can affect many biological systems, including your skin, mouth, eyes, joints, liver and more. 
• Your medications. List all of the medications you’re taking. This doesn’t only include prescriptions; be sure to include any vitamins or supplements you’re taking, too.
• Questions for the doctor. It’s easy to get flustered during an appointment, so writing out the following questions is a good way to ensure that you don’t forget to ask them:
  • What could be causing these symptoms?
  • What tests do I need to take?
  • Is this a temporary condition or something that may last a while? If so, how long does it usually last?
  • Are there things I can do on my own to help improve my condition? Diet, exercise, or behavioral changes that might make a difference?
  • What treatment options are available to me?
  • With medications and other therapies, are there side effects?
  • What results do these treatments usually produce?

IBD can be a difficult condition to live with, but by talking to your doctor and finding treatment, it can be managed.

Need help finding a specialist near you? Try our doctor finder!

References:

1.)   https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000276.htm

2.)   https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/inflammatory-bowel-disease/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353320

3.)   http://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/assets/pdfs/ibd-and-irritable-bowel.pdf pdf icon[PDF – 1.60 MB]external icon