The short version
- The NHS says a GP may ask what symptoms you have, how often, when they happen and how long you have had them.
- It suggests writing down the details before your appointment.
- There is no test for IBS, but you might need tests to rule out other causes.
The questions to prepare for
According to the NHS, the GP may ask:
- What symptoms you have
- If they come and go
- How often you get them
- When you get them, for example after eating certain foods
- How long you have had them for
The GP may also feel your tummy to check for lumps or swelling.
What tests may happen
The NHS says there is no test for IBS, but you might need some to rule out other possible causes. A GP may arrange a blood test to check for problems like coeliac disease, and tests on a sample of your poo to check for infections and inflammatory bowel disease.
After the appointment
It can be difficult to take everything in. If you are unsure about something afterwards, the NHS suggests writing down your questions and making another appointment to go over them.
IBS Tracker: Gut & Food Diary
Our app keeps your symptom history in one place and can export it as a PDF or CSV to bring to your appointment.
We make this app, so we are not a neutral source. Free download with in-app purchases. Requires iOS 15.1 or later. The comparison shows two other approaches, so you can choose for yourself.
When to talk to a doctor
The NHS says to see a GP if you think you might have IBS and have had symptoms for over 4 weeks, if diet changes and pharmacy medicines are not helping, or if you need to avoid lots of different foods to control symptoms.
Ask for an urgent appointment if:
- you have lost a lot of weight for no reason
- you are bleeding from your bottom or have bloody diarrhea
- you find a hard lump or swelling in your tummy
- you have shortness of breath, noticeable heartbeats and skin that is paler than usual
This article is general information, not medical advice or a diagnosis.