Condition
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS is a group of symptoms that typically includes repeated abdominal pain together with changes in bowel movements. Depending on the person, those changes may include diarrhoea, constipation or both. IBS does not require visible structural damage in the digestive tract to produce symptoms.
Common IBS symptoms
Patients may experience:
- abdominal pain related to bowel movements
- diarrhoea, constipation or both
- bloating
- a feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation
- mucus in the stool
When should symptoms be medically evaluated?
IBS is diagnosed from the symptom pattern and clinical assessment, and doctors may use tests when necessary to exclude other conditions. Rectal bleeding, bloody or black stools, anemia or unexplained weight loss can suggest that another problem needs evaluation rather than simply assuming IBS.
Relevant specialist
Dr. Sarvjeet Kumar — Gastroenterologist
IBS is among the Gastroenterology conditions managed by Dr. Sarvjeet Kumar.
Related tests
Tests are not automatically required for every IBS patient. Depending on the history and findings, a clinician may decide whether blood tests, stool tests, Endoscopy, Colonoscopy or another investigation is appropriate.
FAQ
Is IBS the same as inflammatory bowel disease?
No. IBS is a symptom-based disorder and is distinct from inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
Does everyone with IBS need Colonoscopy?
No. Whether Colonoscopy is needed depends on symptoms, age, clinical findings and whether another condition needs to be excluded.
Can IBS cause diarrhoea?
Yes. IBS may present with diarrhoea, constipation or a mixture of both.