Diagnostics

IBS is a clinical diagnosis (using the Rome IV criteria for IBS). Limited diagnostic studies are recommended for the primary purpose of ruling out alternative diagnoses.

All of the following criteria must be met to diagnose IBS.

• Timing: ≥ 6 months since the onset of symptoms

• Symptoms

  • Recurrent abdominal pain (≥ 1 day per week during the previous 3 months)

  • PLUS ≥ 2 of the following

    • Abdominal pain related to defecation

    • Change in stool frequency

    • Change in appearance of stool

Only recommended in patients:

• With red flags for CRC

• Due for age-appropriate screening for CRC

• Bacterial or viral gastroenteritis

• Hypothyroidism/hyperthyroidism

• Celiac disease

• Lactose intolerance

• Bacterial overgrowth syndrome (i.e., SIBO)