Updated on 23 Dec 2025
Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or popularly known as IBS, is a normal digestive issue that affects many individuals in the country. The illness causes discomfort in the stomach and changes the bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhoea. It can be difficult to detect IBS because its symptoms are similar to other stomach-related issues. Due to such reasons, proper diagnosis is extremely crucial. Physicians use various techniques to rule out other ailments before confirming IBS. Let’s acquire more insights on it from this blog.
What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is a long-term ailment of the digestive system, which primarily affects the large intestine. It does not cause any permanent damage, but the condition does make day-to-day life pretty uncomfortable. IBS is viewed as a functional disorder, which means the intestines might appear normal during medical tests, but they don’t function properly. Infections, certain food products and stress are some of the things that trigger this condition.
What are the symptoms of IBS?
The symptoms of this particular condition might differ greatly from one individual to another, but the most common ones are:
- Onset of symptoms after age 50
- Unintended weight loss
- Rectal bleeding
- Fever
- Nausea or recurrent vomiting
- Belly pain unrelated to bowel movements or occurring at night
- Ongoing or sleep-disrupting diarrhoea
- Anaemia due to low iron levels
How is IBS diagnosed?
There is no single test that can directly show that a person has IBS. However, to diagnose this condition, physicians normally use the following methods:
Initial Evaluation
Doctors begin by asking about your health history. They ask about your symptoms, how often they occur and their impact on your life.
A thorough physical examination is conducted to check for signs that might suggest other digestive issues. This step helps rule out conditions that mimic IBS, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or celiac disease.
Rome Criteria
Healthcare professionals refer to specific guidelines called the Rome criteria to identify IBS. These criteria focus on symptoms like belly pain or discomfort occurring at least one day a week in the last three months. They also consider associated changes in bowel movements, like altered frequency or consistency.
Can I prevent IBS?
It’s not possible to completely prevent this specific condition, but you can certainly manage its symptoms by following healthy habits:
- Consume a balanced diet with plenty of fibre.
- Don’t consume food products that trigger discomfort, such as oily or spicy meals.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Manage the stress levels via regular workouts, meditation and even yoga.
- Sleep properly at night to keep the digestive system balanced.
All these lifestyle changes can lower the chances of flare-ups and enhance daily life. It is also important to have a good health insurance plan, as it can cover medical expenses if any severe IBS-related issues occur, protecting you from financial burdens.
Conclusion
IBS may not be a severe condition, but it can affect your daily routine and comfort. A proper diagnosis from a physician can help you manage the condition effectively. By making small lifestyle changes and following your doctor’s advice, you can lead an active and healthy life.
Alongside managing your health, it is equally important to protect yourself financially. A suitable policy can help cover unexpected medical expenses, giving you peace of mind and ensuring that you and your loved ones are well-protected. Fill out the form on this page to receive customised guidance and find a critical illness insurance plan that fits your needs perfectly.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.