How is IBS diagnosed?

    Last Updated: October 13, 2024

    The Rome IV criteria can be used to diagnose IBS based on the proportion of bowel movements rated as constipation or diarrhea compared to those rated as normal. Symptoms need to occur at least once per week for at least three months to be considered IBS.[1] However, there is no exact test for IBS, so a doctor (often a gastroenterologist) may need to rule out other potential diseases with blood and stool tests, and they might also perform a colonoscopy.[2]

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