Advice for getting results?

[jackkat]

So I have my long awaited consultation this Thursday and I'm looking for advice on how to talk to the Dr.
I've made a list of my symptoms so as to stay on tract. But is there anything else I can do to ensure I get the most out of this visit?
The GI that I am seeing is known for being distracted, brief and his bedside manner leaves something to be desired. I will be going alone, and I've been trying to pump myself up mentally. I have an awful habit of minimizing things.

Anyways, I would appreciate any suggestions or experiences.

Thanks!
:smile:
JK

 

[valleysangel92]

The list of symptoms is a good idea, I would also take a list of questions that you have, and make sure that you list any tests you have already had done and any meds you've tried.

If your GI is distracted then be sure to stand up for yourself, remain polite but remind him why you are there. If he is being too brief, ask him to give you more detail.

If he is not up to scratch then you are well within your rights to ask for a second opinion.

 

[Stevi (:]

Make sure you get the big points out first... my doctor does the whole brief thing too... I go in there with notes everytime... he never cares to even hear all my symptoms and also needs reminded what procedures we've have done. Ive decided just to get a referral to a new doctor... I tried with the notes and tried to really express my pain and distress but nope....sometimes you just have to find someone new.

 

[Stevi (:]

Best wishes tell me how it goes Ive also read making food,pain,symptom and stool diaries can be helpful.

 

[jackkat]

Thank you both for your replies.
My appointment was this morning and after a brief discussion and some stomach prodding, he put me in for an emergency colonoscopy. The scope showed a very diseased looking colon and a diagnosis. Ulcerative colitis. I am relieved to know finally, and hopeful that the treatment he prescribed does a good job. "Very severe but not severe enough for the heavy duty drugs." So I'm on Asacol 400mg.

 

[Stevi (:]

Things get better from here