What are IBS symptoms, and how is it diagnosed?
IBS causes recurrent abdominal pain with a change in stool frequency or form, sometimes with bloating, constipation or diarrhoea. Diagnosis uses the symptom pattern and clinical assessment. Bleeding or unexplained weight loss should not automatically be attributed to IBS.
Details
Must constipation and diarrhoea alternate?
No. IBS may predominantly involve constipation, diarrhoea or a mixture. Pain is related to bowel movements in many people, but it does not always improve afterwards. IBS involves how the gut and brain interact; symptoms are real even without visible bowel damage.
How assessment works
A clinician asks about duration, medicines, diet and family history and examines the abdomen. Blood or stool tests, or further investigations, may be appropriate depending on age and accompanying findings. Everyone does not need colonoscopy, and bloating alone is insufficient for diagnosis.
When another cause must be considered
Blood in the stool, anaemia or unintentional weight loss deserves assessment. Severe new pain or heavy bleeding requires urgent care. A record of symptoms, meals and bowel movements can help the clinician select a management plan matched to your pattern.
Related reading: What is a low-FODMAP diet, and can it help IBS?.