Diagnosing Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Diarrhea (IBS-D)
Irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) is a long-term digestive system disorder known by repeated abdominal pain, changes in bowel movements and frequent diarrhea.
To diagnose IBS-D, there are several examinations, screening tests, and procedures that can be done to help confirm a diagnosis of IBS-D and determine its type, severity, or stage. These include:
- Review of symptoms: Doctors will ask about your symptoms, such as abdominal pain and changes in bowel movements, to identify a pattern consistent with IBS-D.
- Medical and family history: Doctors will review your medical history and ask about any family history of digestive system conditions to look at your risks of getting IBS-D.
- Physical exam: A physical exam may be conducted to check for any signs or abnormalities in the abdomen.
- Rome criteria: Doctors use the Rome IV criteria to diagnose IBS-C. For a diagnosis, the person must experience abdominal pain along with other symptoms related to bowel movements.
In order to rule out other conditions that may have similar symptoms to IBS-D, doctors may order additional testing. Some of these tests may include:
- Bloodwork: Blood tests can help rule out other potential causes of symptoms.
- Breath Test: A breath test can be used to check for lactose intolerance or bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.
- Colonoscopy: This procedure allows doctors to examine the colon and rectum using a flexible tube with a camera. It can help rule out other conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or colon cancer.
- Endoscopy: This procedure involves using a thin tube with a camera to examine the upper digestive tract. It can help rule out conditions such as celiac disease or gastritis.
- Imaging Tests: Imaging tests like CT scans may be ordered to get a better view of the digestive tract and rule out other conditions.
- Stool Tests: Stool tests can help identify any signs of infection or inflammation in the digestive system.
The goal of these examinations, tests, and procedures is to gather information that supports the diagnosis of IBS-D and rules out other potential causes for the symptoms. It is important to note that not all these tests are required in every case. It's best to work with a healthcare professional to determine the right approach for your situation.
Specialists involved in diagnosing IBS-D can vary. Gastroenterologists, who specialize in digestive disorders, are commonly consulted, along with primary care physicians. Dietitians may also help by offering advice on dietary changes to manage symptoms. If you're concerned about IBS-D, consulting a healthcare provider is essential for personalized guidance.