Patient information from BMJ

Crohn disease: questions to ask your doctor

Last published:Jun 23, 2020

If you've been diagnosed with Crohn disease, you may want to talk to your doctor to find out more.

Here are some questions you might want to ask:

• How do you know I have Crohn disease?

• Where can I find out more about Crohn disease?

• Is there a support group in my area?

• Are there online support groups you'd recommend?

• Should I change my diet? Are there any foods I should avoid?

• Can I see a dietitian?

• Do I need to take vitamin pills or other supplements?

• Is it a good idea to use over-the-counter treatments for pain or diarrhea?

• Is there a choice of drug treatment for a flare-up?

• What do I do if my treatment doesn't work?

• Can I change drug treatments if I'm getting side effects?

• Is it worth taking treatment regularly, to prevent flare-ups?

• How will having Crohn disease affect my ability to work?

• Will I need to change my lifestyle?

• Can you help me to stop smoking?

• When is surgery used to treat Crohn disease?

• Will I need tests to make sure I don't have bowel (colorectal) cancer?