How to Diagnose IBS

If you have been struggling with gastrointestinal difficulties like abdominal pain, constipation, and bloating that won’t go away, IBS could be the cause of your discomfort.

IBS or irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic disorder that affects millions of Americans. Since the symptoms of IBS can compromise your quality of life, it is essential to consult with a trusted digestive health care professional to ease your digestive distress.

At Cochise Oncology, Sierra Vista, Arizona, our team includes a highly experienced gastroenterologist who is an expert in diagnosing IBS and other GI disorders.

IBS Tucson

What is IBS?

IBS is a gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain and abnormal bowel habits. Other symptoms include gas, bloating, heartburn, and cramping. The symptoms of IBS can range from mild to severe.

The exact cause of IBS is not clear, but doctors believe it is related to bacterial imbalance in the gut and food sensitivities. There is no cure for IBS, but it is possible to manage the condition and restore health to the digestive tract.

IBS can affect men and women of all ages but is more common in women.

How is IBS Diagnosed? 

At Cochise Oncology, diagnosing IBS involves a review of your symptoms, a physical examination, and diagnostic testing. There are no lab tests that can conclusively diagnose IBS. However, there are digestive diagnostic procedures we can perform to be sure that your diagnosis is IBS.

Digestive Diagnostic Procedures for IBS may include:

Lab tests

  • Blood Tests: Blood samples will be taken to check for imbalances in gut bacteria.
  • Stool tests: These are done to detect the presence of a bacterial infection or intestinal parasites.

Imaging Tests

  • Colorectal Transit Study: This test shows how well food travels through the colon.
  • Computed tomography scan (CT scan): Takes a series of images of the digestive system at different angles.
  • Lower GI Series (Barium Enema): Examines the lower GI tract i.e. the large intestine, lower small intestine, and rectum.

Endoscopic Procedures

  • Endoscopy: Procedure that examines the upper GI tract.
  • Colonoscopy: A narrow, flexible tube known as a colonoscope is used to view the colon.

The diagnostic tests we use to detect IBS will depend on the symptoms you are experiencing and how frequently they occur.

How is IBS Treated?

Once an accurate diagnosis is arrived at, we will recommend a customized treatment plan to alleviate symptoms. Treatment may involve a combination of medications and dietary adjustments to avoid foods that trigger symptoms of IBS.

If you suspect you may have IBS, schedule a consultation with our gastroenterologist for a diagnosis. 

Take the Next Step

Are you ready to learn more about IBS? Reach out to Cochise Oncology at (520) 803-6644 or fill out the consultation form on this page. We look forward to meeting you!

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