Preparing to see a new GI doc, what should I bring? (undiagnosed)
I'm preparing to see a new gastro doctor in a few weeks (sooner if there is a cancellation). I saw a GI doctor 2 years ago and was diagnosed with IBS and gastritis, but since have developed bloody diarrhea, mucus in stool, iron deficiency that doesn't respond to iron supplements, vitamin D deficiency, etc, which has made my doctor want a second opinion and possibly a repeat colonoscopy (my last one was clear).
What should I bring to the GI appointment to give her as much information as possible? I have the referral, a copy of my iron studies and a list of the symptoms I experience. Is there anything else that would be beneficial for me to bring? I wondered about whether I should keep a bowel movement log, or maybe something else? I have a few dot points on the investigations the last GI doctor did, but as they are colleagues and work in the same office I'm assuming she will have access to all of that.
Is there anything I am missing?
I want to be as prepared as possible because this appointment is costing nearly $200, but I also don't want to be over prepared and have her look at me as though I'm a freak. I just want to advocate for myself as best I can.
Hi
, it sounds like you are taking your care into your own hands, which is exactly the right thing to do. No doctor should ever see being prepared as being a freak. I think having a log of bowel movements is a great idea. They'll probably ask you questions about frequency, urgency, how bloody it is, and how loose it is. A log will help you answer those questions. You may also want to think about the arc of your story (when this happened, how it started, if anything makes it worse, etc) because they'll probably start with "tell me why you're here" and that way you can tell them the story fully. Make sure to also bring a list of any other medications you take, along with the dosages! If you are able to bring another person, it may be helpful too, as 1. I find that doctors are often more thoughtful when they see a patient's family/friend in the room and 2. that person can help you remember information if need be. Otherwise, you sound really prepared! Just remember to take a deep breath and take each moment as it comes. It can be scary to talk to the doctor, especially when it's costing so much, but it always helps me to think about my doctor as a collaborator in helping me feel better. Please let us know how it all goes! <3 -Eshani (IBD Team Member) 
I think you are doing a great job. I would add perhaps any imaging that you have had done. Other than that, it looks like you have everything covered. A log a bowel movement is a great idea. Best, Elizabeth (team member)
