Diagnosing IBS can be difficult because there is no single known cause and IBS does not cause structural damage to your body.
To help your GP get a clear idea of what is happening inside you it may help if you keep a list of your symptoms. The following may help you to identify if you have IBS.
The symptoms that most people experience are:
Abdominal Cramps
These tend to be in the lower abdomen. They are sometimes relieved by a bowel movement or passing gas
Bloating
92% of IBS patients experience bloating.
Diarrhea
Greater than 3 bowel movements per day
Constipation
Less than 3 bowel movements per week
Alternating between diarrea and constipation
Keeping a record of your symptoms
List all of the following that apply:
Abdominal cramping Abdominal pain on the left side Diarrhea Bloating Constipation Straining with a bowel movement Gas Other_______________________________
How long have you had these symptoms?
A few weeks About 12 weeks About 6 months Less than 1 year Less than 5 years 5 to 10 years
How often do you have these symptoms?
Once per month Once per week Every day Several times per day Constantly