A gut-brain therapist’s guide to making the most of your time with your gastroenterologist
Written by Dr. Antonia Repollet
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Certified School Psychologist
GI Psychology
Your first visit with a gastroenterologist (GI) can feel a little like walking into a maze: you know there’s an end goal, but you’re not entirely sure which turns will get you there. Whether you’re seeking answers for new symptoms or managing a chronic GI condition like Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), a little preparation can help you leave the appointment feeling informed and empowered rather than overwhelmed.
1. Gather Your Symptom Story
You can often make the most of your appointment with some pre-planning, clear timelines, and exploring any patterns. In the weeks leading up to your appointment, jot down:
- When your symptoms started, how often they occur, and how severe they are
- Any triggers or patterns you’ve noticed (e.g., foods, stress, activity)
- How symptoms impact daily life (e.g., work, school, sleep, mood)
*Bring your symptom tracker or a short summary sheet so you’re not trying to remember everything on the spot!
2. Bring Your Medical and Medication History
Your GI doctor will want to know:
- Any previous tests, labs, imaging, or procedures (bring copies or have them sent ahead of time)
- Current medications and supplements, including dosages/frequencies
- Significant health history such as surgeries, other diagnoses, and family history of GI conditions (if applicable)
*This prevents repeat testing and ensures your doctor sees the full picture.
3. Use a Question Framework to Stay Focused
When you’re nervous or overwhelmed, it’s easy to forget what you wanted to ask. Organizing your questions into categories can help. For example:
Diagnosis & Understanding
- What conditions are you considering based on my symptoms?
- How will you narrow this down?
- Is there anything in my history that points to one condition over another?
Testing & Procedures
- What tests do you recommend and why?
- What do these tests involve, and are there risks or prep requirements?
- How soon will results be available?
Treatment & Management
- What are the treatment options, and what are the pros/cons of each?
- Are there lifestyle or dietary changes I should start now?
- How will we monitor my progress?
Next Steps & Communication
- How often will I follow up with you?
- Who should I contact with new or worsening symptoms?
- Can we communicate through the patient portal for questions between visits?
4. Expect (and Plan) for Discussion of Lifestyle Factors
GI symptoms can be influenced by diet, mood, sleep, and movement. Be prepared to talk about:
- Typical daily eating patterns (no need for a perfect “food diary,” just an honest picture).
- Your stress levels and coping strategies.
- Sleep quality and physical activity.
*Your doctor will likely want to look for patterns that might guide next steps.
5. Bring (or call/Facetime) a Support Person (If Helpful)
A trusted friend or family member can:
- Help you remember details during the appointment.
- Take notes while you focus on the conversation.
- Offer emotional support if the discussion feels overwhelming.
6. Clarify Next Steps Before You Leave
As a reminder, before you walk out, make sure you know:
- What tests or treatments are being ordered and why.
- When and how you’ll receive results.
- Who to contact if your symptoms change or worsen.
*If anything feels unclear, ask for clarification in writing or through your patient portal.
Bottom Line
Walking into your first GI appointment prepared not only helps your doctor give you the best care – it also puts you in the driver’s seat of your health journey. With your notes, questions, and key information ready, you’ll leave with a plan you understand and a clearer path forward.
Need Extra Support Before Your Appointment?
Even though preparing for your first GI visit can feel overwhelming, you don’t have to do it alone. At GI Psychology, we help patients feel more confident, organized, and in control when navigating new diagnoses, treatment plans, and chronic GI conditions and symptoms. If you’d like guidance on building a symptom tracker, practicing appointment communication skills, or managing anxiety around medical visits, contact us here. Your health journey is personal, and the right preparation can make all the difference!
We also offer dedicated support for adults living with IBD through our IBD Psychotherapy Group—a space designed to provide evidence-based tools, community, and long-term resilience. Enroll today!