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What Irritable Bowel Syndrome is, and how a doctor decides it's IBS

Kathryn Dunn

Published on: 24/10/2026

There's no test for IBS. How a UK doctor decides it's IBS: the questions, the blood and stool tests, the 2026 criteria, and the tests you don't need.

IBS diagnosisIBS testsRome criteriairritable bowel syndrome

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Gut Feelings

One short email a week on the science of IBS, in plain English.

IBS Explained is written and maintained by Kathryn Dunn. It's information, not medical advice. It works alongside the care you get from your GP, not instead of it. Please see your GP about any new or changing symptoms.