[h8ibs]

Hello,I've been diagnosed for many years by my pcp as having IBS-D (based on how long I've had symptoms and description of my symptoms.) Saw a new pcp who suggests I see a GI specialist. Not sure I'm game for starting a whole series of medical tests. If I go see a GI specialist, what should I expect?

 

[BQ]

Expect to fill out a form describing your symptoms, (best to bring a list of your symptoms.. their onset, frequency & duration) & a general abdominal exam. Testing??? Depends on when you had your last round of testing; if it was fairly recently then I wouldn't expect to have them done again. If it was 10 years ago.. or you have had a significant change in symptoms... yeah they could want more tests. Otherwise I would explain that you are there at the behest of your new GP.

 

[Kathleen M.]

First appointment is usually medical history and blood work and maybe a stool test. They may do a quick rectal exam and feel your abdomen.A lot of how many other tests you need will be based on the symptoms and the blood work. You don't necessarily get all the tests, especially if you are really clearly someone with a functional GI disorder.I'd be ready to go over what treatments you have tried already (bring that on a list to make sure you remember) and I'd also list out your symptoms and how often you have them. They may want a food diary, but they will probably have you do that if they think they need it.