Questions for UK (un)diagnosed members

[Shiv]

Hi, I'd just like to ask a few questions to members in the UK about diagnosis, treatment etc.

I'm really eager to visit my GP in the hope of getting answers as my symptoms seem to be becoming more sporadic and affecting my daily life and studying.

The only problem is I have anxiety/fear about going and either being made out to be a hypochondriac or just being brushed off with being diagnosed with ibs.

I'd really like advice on how I approach the subject with my doctor like do I just visit and say "I think I may have Crohn's diseases" or do I explain my symptoms and see what he suggests?

Also what primary tests are carried out? As I'm also nervous about invasive testing lol

Any replies will be greatly appreciated, thank you

 

[Axelfl3333]

I wouldn't,t self diagnose with your dr just tell them exactly what is happening and take it from there,hopefully it's not anything to serious,don,t mention dr google or look to closely he,s usually wrong.if your nervous about testing your probably better not thinking about that anyway most of the early tests aren,t invasive poop on a stick is always a favourite

 

[Shiv]

Thank you for replying, yeah I thought it's be best not to mentio what I suspect I have or else my symptoms will just look a coincidence..
All I need now is to get over my fear and get the courage to book an appointment lol

 

[LewisS]

I was exactly the same, thought I'd just be told I had IBS and to just live with it. But quite the opposite happened!

Tell them your symptoms (I wrote mine down), he/she will probably do some physical examinations on your stomach (just a bit of prodding) and then they'll probably book some blood work to be done and maybe order a stool sample. I personally didn't have to do a sample.

My blood work came back with raised inflammation markers and anemia. He then referred me to see a colorectal surgeon and made an appointment for an ultrasound.

If your doctor doesn't show interest or brushes you off, ask for these tests to be done regardless.

 

[littlemissh]

Start off by writing a brief and succinct list of your symptoms. If you have had weight loss, bleeding, increasing diarrhoea particularly at night, put those at the top of your list. If you have a family history of IBD then put that at the top of your list also.
Try not to put every minor niggle down though. Focus initially on the big ones and he/she should ask more relevant questions.
I think it is worth saying why you are worried about crohn's so that this can be addressed.

What are your symptoms??
Without knowing them the basic tests would probably be FBC, inflammation markers (CRP/ESR), coeliac screen, liver function tests. A stool specimen for infection may be sent if you have diarrhoea. A stool specimen for calprotectin may be sent if it is available in your area.
It is worth noting that many doctors feel that having normal inflammatory markers means you do not have Crohn's-in fact up to 25% of those with active crohn's have normal markers.

 

[Ali29]

Shiv - don't let the fear/anxiety of the Dr's get in your way. You deserve to live your life to the fullest, going to the GI will hopefully put you on the path to healing!!

Even though I'm not in the UK - my family is English - dad was born in London and we still have family in the UK. I know the medical system is different than in the US - don't stop until you are confident in your GI and your treatment (if necessary).

I wish you luck and confidence!!! :ghug: