How can I get a quicker diagnosis?
Hello, I have been back and forth to the hospital for about 3 years and still have no diagnosis. My symptoms are only getting worse and the hospital doesn't seem to be doing much. I have had multiple tests and scans and have another one coming up, but I always get told the same, 'it could be ulcerative colitis but we aren't sure, we will put you forward for another scan'. Any advice?
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Hi
, thanks so much for reaching out. I'm sorry you're having such a difficult time receiving a diagnosis from your doctor. Like you, many here had to go through many obstacles before being properly diagnosed. Have you considered a second opinion or seeking out a different doctor/IBD Specialist? I'm attaching an article here- "Think you might have IBD? Here’s what you can do!"
https://inflammatoryboweldisease.net/living/what-to-do-think-have-ibd/
This journey can be so difficult and that’s why we are here for you to offer support! Never feel like you have to go through this alone. Please keep us updated on how you're doing. Warmly, Pam (team member)Thank you very much!
Hi
,
I'm so sorry for your frustrations! It took a long time for me to get diagnosed and I know that others have had similar frustrations. May I ask, have you seen an IBDologist? A GI that specializes in Inflammatory Bowel Disease? Sometimes the ER or general practice doctors are unable to get a proper diagnosis because there are specific procedures needed in order to determine a dx. Perhaps you can get a referral to a GI specializing in IBD from your primary care doctor.
-Brooke
(Team Member)Hi Brooke, I have seen an IBD Nurse but has been discharged as I haven't had a diagnosis as of yet. I'm currently under a consultant in the Gastroenterology department. I will have a look into the referrals though. Thank you very much
Thank you for posting,
. This is so frustrating, however, quite common in the IBD community. I would absolutely seek a second opinion (or third or fourth!) as sometimes things can be missed or if the same doctor is continuously seeing you, they may be missing the whole picture.
Please keep us posted on how your diagnosis journey progresses!
--Julie (Team Member)
