It isn't easy to tell the difference, but sometimes when I had the pain I was also vomiting, which is not IBS related. Honestly though, I had a difficult time telling the difference between the pains. However, I felt that without the function, my gallbladder was useless. Getting it out made a big difference. I still have IBS, but those right side pains are gone. Also, I felt better having a diseased organ OUT of my body. I know it's a tough decision, and it wasn't an easy surgery for me, but was well worth it. Hang in there!