The initial visit to the gastroenterologist can be somewhat intimidating. Many people say this, especially when they know nothing about it. Perhaps you have been having bowel stubbornness or a bloat that just hits a limit. Maybe you have digestive problems that you don’t understand. Whatever has brought you this far, a little preparation will help in making your appointment easier, clearer, and much more useful.

This is how to enter the doctor’s office feeling prepared and leave feeling heard.

Gather your symptom story

You have a few minutes to write down what has been happening with your body before you go. Tauranga gastroenterology experts love details, as your gut does have patterns of symptoms.

Write down things like:

• When the symptoms started
• How often they happen
• What is better or worse about them?
• Any suspicious foods
• Whether the pain or the discomfort changes over time.

You just have to be honest so that your doctor doesn’t have to guess.

Track your food (even briefly)

You do not need a full-blown food diary, except when you want one. The three to five days of meals and symptoms can assist your gastroenterologist in detecting the linkages that you would otherwise be unaware of.

• Perhaps dairy is the cause of your bloating. 
• Or it’s those stress knots in your stomach. 
• Maybe bread is causing chaos. 

A small log helps to identify those clues.

List your drugs and vitamins

Write down all the things you take: 

• Prescriptions
• Over-the-counter drugs
• Vitamins
• Protein powders
• Herbal combinations, etc. 

There are numerous supplements that interfere with digestion without your conscious knowledge. Certain drugs lead to side effects that resemble GI issues.

Your gastroenterologist must have the complete picture, or they may misdiagnose something that is medication-related.

Know your family history

Families can have digestive health problems. Some common genetic associations include:

• Crohn’s disease
• Colon cancer
• Celiac disease
• Irritable bowel syndrome.

You need to know what kinds of digestive problems your family members deal with. You will assist your physician in determining your risk better. Share what you can.

Write some burning questions 

The appointments are quick, and you might forget what you intended to ask. Write a short list. Something like:

• What do you suppose could be causing my symptoms?
• Do I need tests, and why?
• Do I need to change my diet or routine?

Your questions are important. They will help steer the discussion toward a solution.

Expect personal questions, and that’s all right

Gastroenterology is, so to speak, intimate. Your doctor will enquire about:

• Your bowel movements
• How often you use the bathroom
• How many times you are stressed
• Your emotional status. 

It does not feel awkward to them. Be receptive and tell the truth. Do not undermine your symptoms. This is a judgment-free zone.

Prepare for follow-up tests

The initial visit may result in the prescription of blood tests and scans. You may have to undergo an endoscopy or a colonoscopy. This does not necessarily imply that something is wrong; it only means that your doctor would like some answers and not guesses.

Wrapping up

Prepare to give your doctor the information they need to help you feel better. In turn, you will get better answers and a more assured plan ahead.