Irritable Bowel Syndrome Self Help and Support Group

What are the symptoms of IBS?

How you can prepare for this discussion

• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Bloating
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Keep a record of the number and patterns of bowel movements a day
• Note if this is a change from your normal bowel habits
• Note the characteristics of your stool (hard or loose, lumpy)
• List any foods that precipitate your symptoms
• Note if anything worsens sympt
• Keep a record of all of your symptoms

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  Could my symptoms be IBS?

  Symptoms vary from person to person and are more common among women, but anyone can get IBS. Abdominal pain or discomfort, associated with constipation and/or diarrhea, are the key symptoms. Some people can experience bloating, and, while they do not cause IBS, sometimes stress and certain foods can worsen symptoms. Characteristics of your symptoms over time will help your doctor decide if you have IBS.

  How you can prepare for this discussion

  • Note if you strain during a bowel movement
  • Look and see if there is mucus in your stool
  • Pay attention to your levels of stress and notice if symptoms worsen
  • Note if symptoms are relieved after defecation
  • Note what activities of daily living are disrupted by your symptoms
  • Record when symptoms first began

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  How is IBS diagnosed?

  Symptoms of IBS can be similar to many other gastrointestinal conditions. There is no one test that can diagnose IBS. However, your doctor can make a diagnosis easily using information that you provide regarding your symptoms and health history. A diagnosis is made by your doctor based on the pattern of symptoms you experience over time. Physical exams, blood tests, stool tests and imaging techniques can provide additional information.

  How you can prepare for this discussion

  • Make a list of all your current and past medical conditions
  • Obtain copies of any prior test results
  • Ask family members if there are any gastrointestinal diseases in your family

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  How is IBS treated?

  Although there is no cure for IBS, there are medications and lifestyle measures, such as eating a healthy diet and avoiding foods that worsen symptoms, that can help you manage some symptoms.

  How you can prepare for this discussion

  • List all over-the-counter remedies, prescription medications and dietary supplements you have taken and how they worked
  • Make a list of all medications you are allergic to

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  Could my diet be a factor?

  No foods are known to cause IBS but some may worsen symptoms. Foods high in fat or caffeine may cause cramping, and some fruits and vegetables increase abdominal gas. For some people, soluble fiber can be helpful.

  How you can prepare for this discussion

  • Keep a diary of what you eat to see what consistently bothers you
  • Note if you are particularly intolerant of daily products
  • Note your alcohol intake
  • Note how much fluid you drink a day

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  Is stress a factor?

  While stress does not cause IBS, people with IBS have colons that are very sensitive. Emotions such as anxiety and anger can stimulate the colon and worsen symptoms. There are many ways to deal with stress, such as exercise, relaxation training, meditation and counseling.

  How you can prepare for this discussion

  • Take note of all activities that cause you stress
  • Note whether any strategies have worked in the past
  • Note your history of anxiety or depression
  • Note if you have problems sleeping

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