If you have Crohn’s disease, you’re probably no stranger to some of the more inconvenient — and potentially embarrassing — symptoms of the condition. Loud noises, foul odors, and emergency dashes to the bathroom can be everyday concerns. And digestive symptoms are often accompanied by questions that can be tough to discuss, even with your doctor.
“Don’t be shy,” says Madalina Butnariu, MD, a gastroenterologist at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus. “Tell me exactly what’s going on and what’s bothering you the most.” She says that’s the only way your doctor can help tame those symptoms.
Bring a list of questions to your next appointment, recommends Faten N. Aberra, MD, an associate professor of medicine in the division of gastroenterology at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine in Philadelphia. “Gastroenterologists are comfortable talking about these issues,” she says.
In the meantime, here are answers to eight Crohn’s questions that you may be hesitant to discuss.