Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Criteria for Diagnosis-Topic Overview Experts on digestive diseases developed these criteria, known as the Rome III criteria, to help doctors determine whether symptoms are caused by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). You meet the Rome III criteria for IBS if your symptoms began at least 6 months ago, you have had abdominal (belly) pain or discomfort at least 3 days each month in the last 3 months, and at least two of the following statements are true:¹

• The pain is relieved by having a bowel movement.
• The pain is linked to a change in how often you have a bowel movement.
• The pain is linked to a change in the appearance or consistency of your stool.

Having any of the following symptoms supports the diagnosis of IBS.

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One approach to coping with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is behavioral therapy. Why? Stress and anxiety can worsen IBS symptoms. Behavioral therapy can help you cope with these feelings and hopefully reduce some IBS symptoms. It's not known what causes pressure and worry to trigger stomach pain, discomfort, diarrhea, or constipation. But learning how to effectively manage emotional reactions seems to help prevent or ease suffering."The majority of IBS patients seem to show some improvement with...

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• A change in how often you pass stool (more than 3 times a day or less than 3 times a week)
• A change in the form of your stool (such as lumpy and hard or watery and loose)
• A change in the way stool passes (you may have to strain, you may feel an urgent need to pass stool, or you may feel like you have not completely passed a stool)
• Passing of mucus in the stool
• Bloating or a feeling like your stomach is stretched out

These criteria are used along with a medical history and physical exam to help your doctor determine whether you have IBS.

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