Skip to main content
Our trust values
University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust

Frequently Asked Questions

for patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

  1. How do I contact the IBD nurse at RBH?
    You can call our answerphone service on 0300 019 4191. Please leave a message with your contact details and we will call you back. You call also email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  2. If I see the IBD nurse, will I still see my consultant?
    Yes, we work very closely as a team. If your treatment needs changing, then the IBD nurse will discuss it with your consultant. Your consultant and IBD nurse are both happy to talk through with you any aspects of your care.

  3. I have been well for over a year now. Can I stop my medication?
    You must first discuss this with your consultant or IBD nurse. It depends on the severity of your original diagnosis. When you are well we encourage you to take your medication to prevent a relapse, or flare.

  4. I have heard that probiotic drinks and supplements can help relieve the symptoms of my disease. Should I take them?
    We are happy to discuss this and any dietary advice in clinic. We will refer you to one of our specialist gastrointestinal dieticians if you would find it helpful.

  5. Can I meet other patients with the same condition I have?
    CCUK – the National Association for Colitis and Crohn’s Disease – provides information and support to people of all ages who have been diagnosed with IBD. They provide a national support line and there are local groups that meet across the country. CCUK also holds an annual meeting at our hospital for patients. If you wish to become a member, ask your IBD nurse for details, visit www.crohnsandcolitis.org.uk or telephone 0845 130 2233

  6. What if I want to talk to others and not my consultant or IBD Nurse?
    We have a very proactive IBD Patient Panel. We encourage patients to get involved to help us improve our service and the care we offer patients. You can contact the IBD Patient Panel Bournemouth at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  7. What about a cure?
    Currently there are no life-long cures for Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Our aim is to keep you well and this may mean regular medications and surgery if appropriate.

Back to top of page