Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be diagnosed based on symptoms. A doctor diagnoses IBS when a person has the typical symptoms of the disorder and, if needed, tests have ruled out other possible causes.

Most people won't need tests, but some people may because of their age and symptoms. The amount of testing you get depends on several things: your age, how your symptoms come on and how severe they are, and how you respond to your first treatment. For example, a 20-year-old might not need tests. But a 50-year-old with new symptoms might need tests because of the higher risk of colon cancer in people over 50.

Opens New Window Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Should I Have Tests for IBS Symptoms? Opens New Window

Tests may include:

• Reference Medical history and physical exam.
• A blood test for Reference celiac disease Opens New Window.
• Reference Complete blood count (CBC).
• Reference Sedimentation rate, which checks for inflammation in the body.
• Reference Stool analysis.

Thyroid function tests and other tests, such as Reference colonoscopy Opens New Window, are sometimes done.

© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.