Since it often requires several visits and tests to accurately diagnose ulcerative colitis, it is important to see a specialist in gastrointestinal conditions when you experience symptoms.

It is important that you take an active role in your ulcerative colitis treatment. You must be able to talk to your gastroenterologist about your symptoms and how they are affecting your life.

The first visit

If you are visiting a gastroenterologist for the first time, you may want to write down a few things. Consider writing down:

• Any questions or concerns you may have
• A list of all medications, vitamins, and herbal remedies you are taking
• Any concerns you have about the medications you are taking
• Any drug allergies
• A description of your symptoms
• Foods that you think aggravate your symptoms

You may want to consider creating a file on your computer with all this information. You can print it out and give it to your gastroenterologist on the first visit and then update it for future visits.

Before you go to your first visit, you may want to make sure all your medical records have been transferred.

Subsequent visits

In addition to the information listed above, you can help your gastroenterologist assess how well your treatment is working by letting him or her know the following:

• Whether your symptoms have improved
• How you feel after taking your medication
• Any concerns you have about the medications you are taking
• How your symptoms are affecting your quality of life

Remember, communication is the key to getting the best possible treatment.

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