by Wood D

You have your own health history. Talk with your doctor about your risk factors and background with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). By talking openly and often with your doctor, you can take an active role in your care.

Tips for Getting Information

Here are some tips that will make it easier for you to talk to your doctor:

  • Bring someone with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of questions to ask. They may also be able to provide more details to the doctor.
  • Write down your questions so do you do not forget them.
  • Write down the answers you get and make sure you understand what you are hearing. Ask for help if you need it.
  • Do not be afraid to ask your questions or ask where you can find more information. You have a right to know.
  • Think about keeping a diary of your symptoms, triggers, and a list of your medicines. Share this with your doctor at every visit.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

About IBD
  • What type of IBD do I have?
  • What are the complications that may happen?
About Your Risk of Getting IBD
  • Am I at risk for IBD based on my health history, lifestyle, and family background?
  • If I have IBD, will my children get it as well?
About Treatment Options
  • What is my best treatment option?
    • What other options are there?
    • What are the risks and benefits of this treatment plan?
  • What medicines can help me?
    • What are the benefits/side effects of these medicines?
    • Will these medicines cause problems with the other medicines, over the counter products, or dietary or herbal supplements that I take?
    • How long will I have to take these medicines?
  • What will the plan be if medical treatment does not help me?
About Lifestyle Changes
  • Will changing my diet help?
    • What type of changes should I make?
    • Can you refer me to dietitian who can help me make these changes?
  • What will I need to change in my daily routine?
About Your Outlook
  • What are my chances of getting colon cancer?
  • What is my risk of having other health problems?
  • Will I need surgery?
    • Will I have to wear a bag to collect body waste?
    • How will that affect my sex life?
  • Will I still be able to have children?
  • Will I be able to live a normal life?
  • Are there support groups that I can join?

References

Crohn disease in adults. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/crohn-disease-in-adults. Accessed April 25, 2022.

Getting the most out of your doctor appointment. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/tips-for-talking-to-your-doctor. Accessed April 25, 2022.

Ulcerative colitis in adults. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/ulcerative-colitis-in-adults. Accessed April 25, 2022.

What is Crohn's disease? Crohn's & Colitis Foundation website. Available at: https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/what-is-crohns-disease. Accessed April 25, 2022.

What is Ulcerative Colitis? Crohn's & Colitis Foundation website. Available at: https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/what-is-ulcerative-colitis. Accessed April 25, 2022.

Revision Information