Preparing for an appointment

You may be referred to a doctor who specializes in the digestive system (gastroenterologist).

What you can do

• Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions, such as restricting your diet before your appointment.
• Write down your symptoms, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason why you scheduled the appointment.
• Write down any triggers to your symptoms, such as specific foods.
• Make a list of all your medications, vitamins and supplements.
• Write down your key medical information, including other conditions.
• Write down key personal information, including any recent changes or stressors in your life.
• Write down questions to ask your doctor.
• Ask a relative or friend to accompany you, to help you remember what the doctor says.

Questions to ask your doctor

• What's the most likely cause of my symptoms?
• What tests do I need? Is there any special preparation for them?
• Is my condition likely temporary or chronic?
• What treatments are available?
• Are there any restrictions I need to follow?
• I have other health problems. How can I best manage these conditions together?

In addition to the questions that you've prepared to ask your doctor, don't hesitate to ask questions during your appointment anytime you don't understand something.

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions. Being ready to answer them may leave time to go over points you want to spend more time on. You may be asked:

• When did you begin experiencing symptoms? How severe are they?
• Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional?
• What, if anything, seems to improve or worsen your symptoms?
• Do your symptoms wake you up at night?
• Are your symptoms worse after meals or lying down?
• Does food or sour material ever come up in the back of your throat?
• Do you have difficulty swallowing food, or have you had to change your diet to avoid difficulty swallowing?
• Have you gained or lost weight?