Diagnosing irritable bowel syndrome

It is often possible to positively diagnose irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) based on a combination of multiple symptoms and their chronic nature. Both the Manning criteria and the ROME 1999 Consensus Working Party Diagnostic Criteria help in diagnosing IBS. It is important that, during the first visit, possible contributing factors, such as associated psychosocial stress or a history of mental, physical, or sexual abuse, are considered as part of the patient evaluation. Patients need to receive a clear explanation of the possible causes of symptoms, the benign nature of IBS, and the low likelihood of serious underlying disease. An interactive, positive physician-patient relationship has a beneficial effect on the course of IBS and may be associated with a decreased need for future health care visits.