Getting diagnosed

What happens at your GP appointment

The GP will ask about your symptoms, such as:

Information:

Before your appointment, it might help to write down details of your symptoms to help you remember them.

The GP may also feel your tummy to check for lumps or swelling.

Tests for IBS

There's no test for IBS, but you might need some tests to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms.

The GP may arrange:

You will not usually need further tests in hospital unless the GP is not sure what the problem is.

What happens if you're diagnosed with IBS

If the GP thinks you have IBS, they'll talk to you about what it is and what the treatment options are.

It might be difficult to take in everything they tell you.

If you're unsure about something afterwards, write down any questions you have and make another appointment to go over them.

The IBS network has more information on IBS

Page last reviewed: 24 February 2021
Next review due: 24 February 2024