They see their problems as only gastrointestinal issues. I say to my patients that they have a sensitive intestine. Once a person comes to the doctor with a constellation of symptoms, there are now diagnostic criteria that clinically suggest an IBS diagnosis, Lucak says. These include abdominal pain and discomfort relieved by defecation. Defecation may be either diarrhea or constipation.
Diarrhea is considered having more than three bowel movements a day that tend to be loose.
Constipation is less than three bowel movements per week that tend to be hard and associated with straining. Current testing practices include blood tests, and possibly stool tests to exclude infection or parasites. If all of these tests are negative, then it is now generally accepted to proceed to IBS treatment, she said. Treatments in the mild category may also be used for other categories. Treatment techniques are used as needed.