What to expect at gi

[Mark74]

I have had crohns in the illium since 2002.my pcp and gi now believe the crohns is in the rectum starting to having rectal issues (frequent bowel movements, urgent, small amounts, mucus, very bad anal pain)

How does your doctor monitor you? I am use to my gi just checking my abdomen and blood work. I don't have to have rectal exams but afraid this may become common. What can I expect now.

I do colonscopy every 2 years

 

[Angrybird]

Hello Mark, the way I tend to get 'monitored' is if I start to have problems I call my IBD nurse in their helpline. Based on my symptoms they will sort out bloods to be done to check inflammation levels and will have a chat with my GI to see if he wants me to come in for an appt. From there some further tests may get ordered but sometimes my bloods and general appearence (tend to look icky quite quick when things go bad) are enough to get a new treatment plan started. Very ocassionaly they have managed to get stuff sorted over the phone for me.

If your last colonoscopy was a while ago I wouldn't be surprised if your doc says another one is needed, especially as you are having problems. Are you on any meds currently? When are you next due to see the GI?

 

[moogie]

When I start feeling bad I just call my GI and set up an appointment. Blood test colonoscopy and then treatment.

No fooling around.

 

[SarahAnne]

Unfortunately, if the disease is moving into your rectum, you may have to have rectal exams. As unpleasant as that is, it could be much worse if the disease is progressing and you don't catch it quickly enough.

I don't have rectal involvement with my CD beyond hemi's and skin tags, but I wouldn't hesitate to ask for a rectal exam if I thought there was a possibility of disease there. I spent my 20's trying to "ignore" my Crohn's and it was a terrible mistake.

Good luck, hope you can get it sorted out quickly!

 

[Mark74]

Angry Bird

I am not concerned about the rectal exams but i was also told I would have to have anoscopy at times. He said a small scope he does in the office. have you ever had this? What is it? Does it hurt?:sign0085:

 

[Angrybird]

Never had one of these I'm afraid so I couldn't say. I would have hoped though that it will not be painful but at worse a bit uncomfortable.

 

[SarahAnne]

I've never heard of it, Mark!

I would ask the doctor for more info, exactly what he's going to do, what he's looking for, how uncomfortable it will be...A rectal exam is not pleasant, but I don't think I could tolerate an unmedicated scope during an office visit!

Good luck, hope it's nothing too terrible.

 

[Lisa]

I am not concerned about the rectal exams but i was also told I would have to have anoscopy at times. He said a small scope he does in the office. have you ever had this? What is it? Does it hurt?:sign0085:

I had this done when I had fistulas - not a big deal, kind of an indignity having your butt up in the air though!....

Anyway - the scope is just a small tube that is inserted so they can take a look around the anus.....mine only hurt when the surgeon poked and prodded at the fistulas!