Irritable Bowel Syndrome Diagnosis
How will your doctor diagnose you with this condition? Learn about the tests, exams, processes, and other information relating to the diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome below.
2009 Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.
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How to Diagnose Irritable Bowel Syndrome
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. In many cases, a diagnosis can be made based on this. Since there is no diagnostic test for IBS, doctors have created criteria for making a diagnosis.
Your doctor may order the following tests to rule out other conditions:
- Analysis of a stool sample to check for blood or evidence of inflammation
- Blood tests
- Barium enema -injection of fluid into the rectum to make the colon show up on an an x-ray , allows the doctor to see abnormal spots in the colon
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy -a thin, lighted tube inserted into the rectum to examine the rectum and the lower colon
- Colonoscopy -a thin, lighted tube inserted through the rectum and into the colon to examine the lining of the entire colon
Your doctor may also screen you for Celiac Disease , which is more common in people with IBS.
2009 Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.
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implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A
MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment
or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright ©2013 EBSCO Publishing All rights
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