THE WAY IBS-D IS DIAGNOSED CONTINUES TO EVOLVE

Diagnostic guidelines have been updated to help healthcare providers diagnose IBS-D faster so you can receive treatment sooner.

Recently published information for IBS-D diagnosis

Healthcare providers can diagnose IBS-D based on your symptom history. But with new information available, their decision can be based on a lower frequency of symptoms over a shorter period of time. Now, along with your history, your healthcare provider may ask about these 4 topics:

Nature of symptoms

You’ve had recurring abdominal pain for an average of at least 1 day/week for the last 3 months associated with going to the bathroom, changes in frequency and/or appearance of stool.

BOTHERSOMENESS

Your symptoms interfere with daily activities, require attention, or cause you to worry.

Frequency of symptoms

Even if you don’t have frequent symptoms, if they bother you enough to speak with a healthcare provider (HCP), a diagnosis of IBS-D can still be made.

DURATION

New guidance suggests that a diagnosis can be made by an HCP if your symptoms are impacting your daily life and you’ve had them for at least 8 weeks.

Get a few tips that can help with everyday life while managing your condition.

Signs that your symptoms may not be caused by IBS-D

If you have symptoms such as stomach pain, diarrhea, gas, or bloating, plus any of those listed, talk with your healthcare provider. Your symptoms may be caused by a different medical problem.

  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Nighttime symptoms that wake you
  • Blood in your stool
  • Anemia or other abnormal blood tests
  • Family history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or celiac disease
  • New onset of symptoms at age 50 or older
  • New and/or worsening symptoms
  • Fever

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