02 Mar The #1 Mistake IBD Patients Make (And How to Fix It)
Why So Many IBD Patients Struggle
Have you ever left a doctor’s appointment feeling more confused than when you walked in? Many people with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) experience this frustration. With so much medical jargon, short appointment times, and a lack of clear guidance, it’s easy to feel lost. When I was first diagnosed, I assumed my doctor would walk me through everything I needed to know. Instead, I found myself searching for answers online, piecing together information, and feeling overwhelmed by conflicting advice.
The truth is, most IBD patients make one critical mistake that keeps them stuck in this cycle of confusion:
Not knowing how to advocate for themselves during medical appointments. This mistake leads to miscommunication, uncertainty about treatment plans, and missed opportunities for better care. But the good news is that you can fix it, starting today. If you’re tired of feeling lost at doctor’s visits, my IBD Patient Checklist can help. It includes the exact questions to ask your doctor, how to track symptoms, and the best way to manage your care with confidence.
Why Most IBD Patients Struggle to Get the Care They Need
Most of us assume that when we walk into a doctor’s office, we will receive a clear, step-by-step plan for managing IBD. Unfortunately, that rarely happens. Doctors only have about 15-20 minutes per appointment and even less for telehealth visits.
That is barely enough time to discuss medications, let alone dive deep into symptoms, lab results, and long-term treatment strategies.
This leads to a frustrating cycle where:
- You leave without a clear action plan
- Your symptoms worsen, but you’re not sure why
- You feel unheard, leading to stress and anxiety
The best way to break this cycle is to go into every appointment fully prepared.
That is why I created the IBD Patient Checklist, a simple tool to help you take control of your health. It will help you ask the right questions, track your symptoms, and get the most out of every visit.
Three Ways to Take Control of Your IBD
(Before Your Next Appointment)
1. Know the Right Questions to Ask
Many IBD patients make the mistake of relying on their doctor to guide the conversation. But if you do not ask specific questions, you may not get the answers you need. Some essential questions to ask at your next appointment:
- What type of IBD do I have, and how does it impact my treatment options?
- What lab tests should I be getting regularly?
- How do I know if my current treatment is working?
- Are there any new treatment options available for me?
Not sure where to start? The IBD Patient Checklist includes a complete list of must-ask questions so you never leave an appointment feeling lost.
2. Track Your Symptoms and Lab Results
One of the biggest reasons IBD patients struggle is that they do not track their symptoms consistently. Without tracking, it is difficult to:
- Recognize patterns and triggers
- Provide accurate updates to your doctor
- Adjust your treatment plan effectively
By keeping a detailed log of symptoms, diet, stress levels, and flare-up patterns, you will be able to advocate for better treatment options and make informed decisions about your health.The IBD Patient Checklist includes a symptom-tracking section to help you identify patterns before they turn into full-blown flares.
3. Advocate for the Best Care Possible
Many IBD patients feel dismissed or unheard during appointments. If this has ever happened to you, you are not alone.
Here is how to advocate for yourself effectively:
- Be direct – Clearly state your concerns and health goals.
- Bring notes – Use the IBD Patient Checklist to organize your symptoms, questions, and concerns.
- Ask for alternatives – If a treatment is not working, ask about other options.
- Know when to get a second opinion – If your doctor is not listening, it may be time to seek new care.
If you are not satisfied with your current treatment plan, it is essential to speak up. You are your own best advocate.
Three Ways to Take Control of Your IBD
The IBD Patient Checklist is a great starting point, but if you want a complete blueprint for managing IBD, one that helps you feel confident in every aspect of your health, you need a deeper plan.
That is why I wrote Navigating IBD: A Six-Week Blueprint for Better Gut Health
Inside, you will learn how to:
- Understand your diagnosis without confusion
- Take charge of your treatment plan and track what is working
- Reduce flare-ups and improve gut health with strategic lifestyle changes
- Advocate for the best care possible, even in short appointments
Stop feeling lost in your IBD journey. Take back control today
Next Steps:
- Step 1: Download the IBD Patient Checklist
- Step 2: Use it at your next appointment to feel more prepared
- Step 3: Want a full six-week roadmap? Get Navigating IBD
Your health is in your hands, let’s take the first step together.
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