If you think you may be suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome, you are not alone. You are among the millions of people who battle this frustrating disorder. Perhaps you have frequent, painful constipation. Maybe you find that after consuming a meal, you immediately find that you are rushing to the restroom, plagued by diarrhea.

Unfortunately, obtaining a diagnosis for irritable bowel syndrome isn't as easy as simply taking a single test. This is mainly because there is no clear evidence of the disorder when you observe a person's intestines. In fact, the intestine will look totally normal, without damage or deformity. For this reason, there is really no clear reason for the presence of IBS symptoms.

Diagnosing irritable bowel syndrome is a process of elimination. The doctor will conduct a complete, thorough medical history examination along with a physical exam. He will probably order a series of tests to check for other problems and rule out other potential illnesses.

" Often, a doctor will order a colonoscopy. This is a process where a tiny, flexible tube is used to examine your colon.

" A CT Scan can provide x-ray images of your organs. During this scan, a doctor can examine your abdomen and pelvis to rule out other causes for your IBS symptoms.

" Flexible sigmoidoscopy tests can be performed to examine your colon.

" Your doctor may test you for lactose intolerance. If you find that your diarrhea is prevalent when you consume dairy products, you may lack the enzyme needed to digest dairy products. A breath test can be performed or your doctor may ask you to abstain from dairy products for a period of time.

" Blood tests can be ordered to test for sensitivity to a certain type of wheat protein. This type of problem can present itself with symptoms very much like those of IBS.

Since diagnosing IBS is a process of elimination, there is a specific diagnostic criterion that must be followed in order to obtain a proper diagnosis. Referred to as Rome criteria, this process is used to diagnose IBS and other similar disorders that negatively affect proper bowel functions.

Certain signs and symptoms must be exhibited before your doctor will confirm that you have IBS. Your pain in the abdomen and diarrhea or constipation must last at least twelve weeks in a year's time frame. You may also be experiencing changes in your bowel movements. For example, one day, you may have normal bowel movements, and the next day, you may have constipation or very firm stool. You will also notice that after having a bowel movement, you perpetually feel as if you haven't finished emptying your bowels. Some people also note mucus in their stool accompanied by abdominal pain.

IBS is a difficult to diagnose disorder. Little is known about its causes, but it is a treatable condition. It's important to note that you should seek medical attention if you think you are exhibiting symptoms of IBS. After receiving a proper diagnosis, your doctor can suggest the best treatment mode.