Bring your stool test results, a clear list of symptoms and medications, and any recent colonoscopy or lab reports. Those items let us evaluate your stool test quickly and decide whether further testing, treatment, or a referral is needed.
What we ask patients to bring and why it helps
When you come in for an initial conversation about stool tests we focus on three things. First, what the test itself shows. Second, how your symptoms line up with those findings. Third, what other tests or procedures you have had recently. Bringing the right documents saves time and leads to a clearer plan.
- Original stool test reports, including lab values and lab notes.
- A timeline of symptoms, including when diarrhea, constipation, blood in stool, abdominal pain, or changes in bowel habits began.
- A complete list of prescription and over the counter medications, supplements, and recent antibiotics.
- Recent blood tests, liver function tests, or imaging reports that relate to digestion.
- Any colonoscopy reports or pathology notes if you have had a colonoscopy.
- Notes about diet changes, travel history, or exposures that might affect stool results.
Which stool test types we review and what they usually mean
Different stool tests answer different questions. We do not ask you to interpret numbers alone. We explain what each test can and cannot tell us, and how results fit into the overall evaluation.
Common stool tests we see
- Fecal occult blood test or FIT. Detects hidden blood that may prompt colonoscopy or other evaluation.
- Stool culture and ova and parasites. Look for bacterial or parasitic infections after travel or sudden symptom onset.
- Clostridioides difficile testing. Considered when antibiotic associated diarrhea is suspected.
- Fecal calprotectin. A marker of intestinal inflammation that helps differentiate inflammatory bowel disease from irritable bowel syndrome.
If you do not have the original report we can often retrieve results from the lab or from your primary care provider. Bring what you have and tell us where the test was performed.
How we handle your stool test during the first conversation
- Review the report. We check what test was done, the exact values, and any lab comments.
- Compare with your symptoms. We place the lab findings in the context of your symptom timeline and medication list.
- Decide next steps. That may be repeat testing with clearer collection instructions, targeted blood work, imaging, or scheduling a colonoscopy when indicated.
We use the conversation to plan safely. If stool tests suggest inflammation or bleeding we explain what additional testing will clarify the cause.
Practical tips for bringing stool test samples and reports
Most patients arrive with a printed report or a picture of the lab result on their phone. If you still have the original collection kit paperwork include that. Also note the time and date the sample was collected if available.
Quick checklist
- Printed lab report or photo of the report
- Symptom timeline
- Medication and supplement list
- Recent colonoscopy or imaging reports
Pro tip: If you had the test done at a different health system tell us the lab name so we can request records ahead of your visit.
Watch out: Avoid interpreting stool test numbers alone. Some normal variation is expected, and labs use different thresholds. We will explain what your specific results mean for you.
How stool tests fit with other services we provide
Stool testing is often one part of a larger evaluation. If stool markers or symptoms suggest the need for direct visualization we may recommend colonoscopy or additional imaging. We perform colonoscopy and related evaluations in Goshen and coordinate care when hepatology or other specialty input is needed.
- Gastroenterologist services for evaluation and interpretation.
- Topic information on stool tests to learn how different tests are used.
- Our Goshen location for directions and local context.
Key takeaway
Bring your stool test reports, a clear symptom history, and a list of medications. Those items let us interpret results efficiently and plan the right next steps.
Frequently asked questions
What if I only have a photo of my lab report?
A photo is usually fine. We will verify values and lab details, and request records if needed.
Do I need to bring the actual stool sample?
Not for the first conversation. If repeat testing is required we will give you precise collection instructions and materials.
How long before my sample was collected matters?
Yes. The collection date and time can affect certain tests. Bring that information when you can.
What does a high fecal calprotectin mean?
Elevated calprotectin suggests intestinal inflammation and usually prompts further evaluation. We interpret this result alongside symptoms and other tests.
Learn more and check our profile
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