For a few years in the early 2000s, one of the most popular shows on television was House, a drama about a brilliant, abrasive doctor who solved medical mysteries.
People who live with conditions like IBS know that reaching a diagnosis for digestive issues isn’t something that can be wrapped up in an hour.
Irritable bowel syndrome is a persistent, recurring illness, which means you’ll need to form a long-term relationship with a knowledgeable, empathetic doctor.
Here’s how you and your physician can work together to make the process of reaching a diagnosis for digestive issues less frustrating.
Find The Right Doctor
A good doctor should know your medical history, recognize the importance of your symptoms, and empathize with how bad those symptoms make you feel.
There are some qualities to look for in a doctor to get the care you need for your digestive issues. Ask yourself these questions as you search:
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Is your doctor sympathetic? Do they listen?
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Do they take your symptoms seriously? Does your doctor take time to explain things such as diets and medications?
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Is your doctor knowledgeable about your condition, yet still willing to turn to a specialist for problems they can’t solve?
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Do they explain why they’ve ordered tests? When the results of the tests come in, do they review them with you?
If you feel like your doctor isn’t sympathetic, and doesn’t take the time to explain things to you, it may be time for a switch.
Managing and Living With IBS
Reaching a diagnosis for digestive issues can often mean trading one unpleasant reality for another. You know what’s causing your problem, but you now have a long road of treatment ahead. Here are some tips for managing your irritable bowel syndrome:
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Educate yourself about your condition. The symptoms are chronic, yet also intermittent, and range from mild to severe. In other words, the IBS your neighbor or co-worker has may not be the same as your IBS. -
If you haven’t found a doctor, follow our tips from above.
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If you have found a doctor, and they’ve diagnosed you with IBS, take heart in knowing that you don’t need to worry about it being some terrible mystery illness.
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Keep a diary to track factors that might trigger your symptoms or make them worse.
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When you’ve decided on a doctor, talk to them about a treatment plan that’s right for you, and discuss options for dealing with pain.
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Look for ways to alleviate your symptoms that don’t require medication. This could mean changes to your diet, getting more exercise, and finding ways to relax and reduce stress.
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If you do use medications, be sure to tell your doctor about anything you take.
Getting a diagnosis for your digestive issues can be difficult, as can dealing with the issues themselves. But remember that you don’t have to go it alone.
Get Support
You may be able to find a support group in your community. If not, there are several online resources you can access, including:
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The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation features an online community that offers 24/7 support for dealing with these ailments, as well as links to local groups, and information on living with the two illnesses.
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Visit the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse to get the answers you need about your digestive problems. They have information about nutrition and digestive health, as well as guides to local support groups and digestive health specialists.
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The Celiac Disease Foundation is dedicated to increasing awareness for digestive illness and advocating for more gluten-free products. Visitors can find information on living with the disease, including tips for adopting a gluten-free diet.
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The IBS Network allows you to set up your own online support group, provided you finish a one-day free group leader training course.
If you’re looking for other ways to manage irritable bowel syndrome, Proper Nutrition can help. Our protein-rich dietary supplements have been shown to ease the symptoms of people dealing with illnesses such as IBS.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can ease your frustration.
