Appointment Preparation

Preparing for Your Appointment with Your Doctor

If your bowel care program has not been working or you’ve experienced constipation that lasts longer than two weeks, you'll likely want to seek medical care from your doctor. If necessary, your physician may refer you to a specialist in digestive disorders (gastroenterologist).

Because appointments can be brief, and because there's often a lot of ground to cover, it's generally a good idea to be well prepared. Here's some information to help you get ready and know what to expect from your doctor.

General Questions to Ask about Your Appointment

  • What are the regular office hours? If you should have a question outside of office hours, is someone from their office accessible?
  • How far out is the doctor booking appointments?
  • How long should you expect to wait at your scheduled appointment with your office?
  • Is the provider board certified?

Preparing for the Appointment

  • Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions. At the time you make the appointment, ask if there's anything you need to do in advance, such as records of your bowel movement or any restrictions of your diet.
  • Write down questions to ask your doctor.
  • Write down any symptoms you are experiencing and keep a bowel care chart. It's also a good idea to write down any issues, changes, or symptoms. A bowel care record helps you and your healthcare professional decide whether your bowel program is working. Every time you do bowel care, write down the results. A bowel care record can be requested from the Enemeez® customer care department.
  • Write down key personal information, including any major stresses or recent life changes.
  • Make note of your weight. If have lost any weight or your appetite has changed, bring this to the attention of doctor.
  • Make a list of all medications, vitamins, or supplements you are taking. Let your doctor know what steps you've taken to try to treat any constipation or changes to your bowel care program.
  • Make note of any changes you’ve made recently. When making a change to your bowel care program, medical professionals recommend changing one thing at a time and maintaining that change for at least a two-week period. Alert your doctor of any changes that you have combined together.
  • Bring your bowel care chart with you to your appointment. A sample is provided below.

Download Bowel Chart

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Disclaimer: The material contained is for reference purposes only and obtained through public domain. Each healthcare facility and consumer shall employ their own practice guidelines. Enemeez® and Alliance Labs does not assume responsibility for patient care or the accuracy of the process of information presented. Consult a physician for healthcare questions. Copyright 2019