How to Tell If You Have IBS

Irritable bowel syndrome is an unpleasant condition that affects many adults. IBS, as the name suggests, is a syndrome rather than an illness. This means the causes are unclear and the symptoms can vary from person to person, and the triggers also can vary. Discuss any unusual or new bowel symptoms with your doctor. You should not just assume that you have IBS. Get a proper diagnosis.

Instructions

• 1

  Observe any changes to your bowel habit. This may mean that you go to the restroom more often than usual. IBS can also cause abdominal discomfort, bloating, flatulence and cramps. These symptoms may be exacerbated by certain foods or drinks; though this does not apply to everybody with the syndrome. Coffee, chocolate, spicy food or fatty foods are common triggers of the symptoms of IBS.

• 2

  Notice whether you suffer from diarrhea, constipation or alternate between the two. This is common. You may still feel as if you need to go to the restroom even after a bowel movement. This also is also a common symptom. Your stool may be loose or hard, or again fluctuate between one and the other.

• 3

  Note whether you've undergone any changes in your recent life. Any major change, even a pleasant one, such as a promotion at work or getting married, may trigger the symptoms in a susceptible person. You also may have recently suffered a gastrointestinal infection, which sometimes triggers IBS.

• 4

  Check any symptoms with your doctor, who will take a full history, carry out a physical examination and may order further tests such as a colonoscopy. Your doctor will want to eliminate any other cause of your symptoms.