Irritable Bowel Syndrome Testing
Those with IBS should always go to a doctor to make
sure that the symptoms are directly related to this syndrome. There
are several tests that will be done to make sure that this is the
syndrome that you have, and that it is not a related disorder.
Before you go to your physician, you can prepare yourself for the
types of tests that they will take. This will prepare you not only
for what will be done when consulting with your doctor, but also
expected results.
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The first type of testing that is done in
relation to IBS is a blood test. Doctors will want to take a
count of your blood. This will show them if you have anemia
or another abnormality that may be causing the same symptoms
as IBS. Those with IBS should have a normal blood count.
They will want to make sure that it is not linked to any
other type of syndrome. They may also perform related tests
that will indicate whether you have tissue damage that is
linked to the symptoms that you are feeling.
The most common test that is part of IBS is a stool test.
There are certain characteristics in stools that have
Irritable Bowel Syndrome. It can be expected that if you
have the symptoms, doctors will want to look at your stools
to see what is happening and what is attached to the stools.
Often times, you will have a parasite that is in your
intestinal tract, instead of IBS. |
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If there is hidden blood, it may also be a
different syndrome, as blood is not associated with IBS. If these tests don’t provide doctors with the
right information for your symptoms, they may decide to
perform a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy. Both of these will
allow the doctor to examine the rectum and portions or the
entire large bowel.
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From here, they will be able to note
irregularities that are directly linked to the spasms that
you are having as well as see if there are other problems
that may be linked to the symptoms.
X-rays, known as barium enemas, are another
option for doctors. Through radiology, they can take
pictures of your large bowel after adding liquid and air.
They are then able to determine what the irregularities are
as well as if there are bacteria that are functioning in
this area. This is one last step that doctors will have the
choice of taking when defining whether you have IBS or not.
These different tests will be done in relation to
questioning and psychological examinations from the doctor.
If they are unable to find irregularities, but you are still
having the problems, they will be able to recommend
different types of medications for you. |
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If you believe you have IBS, it is important
to get it examined by a doctor. It may be another
syndrome or you may have parasitic bacteria in this area. After being tested, you will be able to
further define the problems as well as find solutions to
solve IBS.
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