digestive disorders
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Diagnosis of IBS
A doctor's evaluation based on the person's symptoms Some laboratory tests to look for other disorders Most people with IBS appear healthy. Doctors base the diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome on the characteristics of the person's symptoms. Doctors also use standardized symptom-based criteria for diagnosing IBS called the Rome criteria. They may also do tests to diagnose common illnesses that can cause similar symptoms, particularly when people are over 45 or have warning signs such as weight loss, rectal bleeding, or older age. Doctors use the Rome criteria to diagnose IBS in people who have had abdominal pain for at least 1 day a week in the last 3 months along with 2 or more of the following: Pain is related to defecation. Pain is associated with a change in stool frequency (constipation or diarrhea). Pain is associated with a change in the consistency of stool. A physical examination generally does not reveal anything unusual except sometimes tenderness over the large intestine. Doctors do a digital rectal examination, in which a gloved finger is inserted in the person's rectum. Women also may undergo a Gynecologic Examination . Doctors usually do some tests, for example, blood tests, to differentiate IBS from Crohn Disease , Doctors may do other tests, such as Ultrasound Scanning (Ultrasonography) of the Abdomen of the abdomen or Other digestive tract disorders (such as Appendicitis , Because IBS symptoms can be triggered by stress and emotional conflicts, doctors ask questions to help identify stress, anxiety, or mood disorders. Doctors also ask questions to rule out laxative abuse. 