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For every person with IBS, the patterns of symptoms varies. Doctors have established a list of symptoms that help them distinguish IBS from other intestinal problems known as the Rome III criteria. A patient does not need to have all of these symptoms in order to have IBS. You meet the Rome III criteria for IBS if your symptoms began at least 6 months ago, you have had abdominal pain or discomfort at least 3 days each month in the last 3 months, and at least two of the following statements are true:

• 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.

A patient may also be diagnosed with IBS if their bowel movement patterns fall under the following descriptions.

• Bowel movements may occur either more frequently or less frequently than normal (diarrhea or constipation).
• Bowel movements may differ in size or consistancy.
• The way stool passes may change. It may be urgent or it may feel like it hasn't completely passed.
• You may have bloating or a feeling of gas in the intenstines.

Other symptoms not related to the digestive system include: anxiety or depression, fatigue, headache, unpleasant taste in mouth, backache, urinary symptoms, sexual problems, and/or heart palpitations. These symptoms often occur after a meal, during stressful times or during menstruation.

Please follow these links for more information on the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome:

• WebMD: Symptoms of IBS
• About.com: IBS Symptoms
• NIH.gov

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