DOCTOR PATIENT RELATIONS AND PATIENT STRE SS DUE TO ENDOSCOPY IN INFLAMMATORY BOWEL-DISEASE/

The relationship between doctors and patients with inflammatory bowel disease is usually considered complex and difficult. We analyzed the q uality of this relationship and the stress inflicted on the patients b y endoscopy. 76 patients with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis an swered a questionnaire. More than three quarters considered their rela tionship to their doctors good or very good. The patients expressed a wish for more information on the pathophysiology and treatment options of their disease. The stress placed on the patients by endoscopy was considered severe or very severe by 57%. We conclude that the relation ship between doctors and patients with inflammatory bowel disease is g enerally considered good or very good. Endoscopies are highly stressfu l for most patients and we recommend appropriate sedation.