Let's be fair - we can't ask our doctors for an IBS cure. Currently, there isn't one (except possibly gut-directed hypnotherapy, which is well-researched and which your doctor should definitely know about).
But, since IBS is a disorder that we, the patients, must manage on a daily basis, these are the questions to ask for help with that!
1. Do my symptoms match those required for an IBS diagnosis following the Rome Guidelines?
2. Have you run the tests necessary to rule out:
Colon and carcinoid cancer
Inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn's and Ulcerative Colitis)
Bowel obstructions
Diverticulosis / Diverticulitis
Gallstones
Food allergies, intolerances, and malabsorptions (fructose, lactose, etc.)
Celiac (a genetic, autoimmune disorder resulting in gluten intolerance)
Bacterial infections and small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
Intestinal parasites
Endometriosis
Ovarian cancer
3. Do you recommend prescription drugs? What if they don't work? What about side effects?
4. What about diet?
5. What about stress management?
6. What about alternative therapies?
7. What types of natural supplements do you recommend?
8. Do you know of any Irritable Bowel Syndrome support groups in my area?
9. Can you recommend any good books, literature, and websites on the subject?
10. What do you think is the best way to comprehensively manage my symptoms?
Tip Takeaway: IBS can be self-managed, but it cannot be self-diagnosed. Your doctor should give you both a solid IBS diagnosis AND point the way to information you need to successfully live with it!
