What Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

IBS is a mix of belly discomfort or pain and trouble with bowel habits: either going more or less often than normal (diarrhea or constipation) or having a different kind of stool (thin, hard, or soft and liquid).

IBS Diagnosis

There are no specific lab tests that can diagnose IBS. Your doctor will see if your symptoms match with the definition of IBS, and they may run tests to rule out conditions such as:.

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Your doctor may do some of the following tests to decide if you have IBS:

  • Flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy to look for signs of blockage or inflammation in your intestines
  • Upper endoscopy if you have heartburn or indigestion
  • X-rays
  • Blood tests to look for anemia (too few red blood cells), thyroid problems, and signs of infection
  • Stool tests for blood or infections
  • Tests for lactose intolerance, gluten allergy, or celiac disease
  • Tests to look for problems with your bowel muscles