Receiving a diagnosis of a chronic condition like ulcerative colitis can lead to many questions and concerns. Preparing for your appointment with a gastroenterologist helps you and your doctor build a productive partnership to manage your health. A well-organized list of questions allows you to make the most of your time together and gain a clearer understanding of your specific situation.
What Is Ulcerative Colitis?
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes long-lasting inflammation and ulcers in the innermost lining of your large intestine (colon) and rectum. The course of the disease varies from person to person. For some, symptoms develop gradually, while for others, they may appear suddenly. Understanding the specifics of your diagnosis is a foundational step in managing the condition.
What Are the Signs?
The signs and symptoms of ulcerative colitis can vary in severity. Common manifestations include rectal bleeding, an urgent need to have a bowel movement, and abdominal discomfort or cramping. Some individuals also experience systemic symptoms, such as fatigue, weight loss, or joint pain. Tracking these signs can provide your clinician with valuable information about the activity of your condition.
To better understand and manage your symptoms, you could discuss the following with your doctor:
- Which of my symptoms require immediate medical attention?
- What is the best way for me to track my symptoms and their patterns?
- Are there any over-the-counter medications I should avoid for symptom management?
- How do my symptoms relate to the level of inflammation in my colon?
How Is It Treated?
Managing ulcerative colitis typically involves a multifaceted approach aimed at reducing inflammation, controlling symptoms, and achieving long-term remission. Treatment plans are tailored to each individual and may evolve. Management can include lifestyle and dietary adjustments, as well as prescription medications. Standard medication classes are aminosalicylates (ASA), corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and biologics. In certain situations where medical therapy is insufficient or complications arise, surgery may be a viable option.
As you and your doctor develop a treatment plan, you may find it helpful to ask:
- What are the goals of my proposed treatment plan?
- What are the potential benefits and side effects of each medication option?
- How will we monitor the effectiveness of my treatment?
- When would we know if it is time to adjust or escalate my therapy?
- Are there specific dietary changes that could support my treatment?
- How can stress affect my condition, and what strategies can help alleviate it?
- Are there specific vaccinations or health screenings I should have?
Speak Further With Your Gastroenterologist
A prepared list of questions is a powerful tool for navigating your healthcare journey. It fosters clear communication and helps you actively participate in decisions about your treatment. When you attend your appointment, you may also bring a symptom diary, a complete list of your current medications and supplements, and copies of any recent lab work or imaging reports you have. Your gastroenterologist can provide personalized information and develop a management plan suited to your unique health needs. Open dialogue with your clinician is the basis for effectively managing your ulcerative colitis.
