What to expect from a GP consultation for irritable bowel syndrome

The GP may ask about abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea, constipation, urgency, and how your bowel movements change over time. They may ask about food patterns, stress, medicines, weight change, family history, and symptoms that wake you at night. An abdominal examination can help identify tenderness or another explanation for your symptoms.

IBS is considered after the symptom pattern and examination are reviewed. The GP may arrange blood or stool tests when they are needed to check for other causes. A consultation does not mean every bowel symptom is IBS, so new or unusual features should be described clearly.

Before the appointment, record when pain occurs, stool frequency and appearance, foods that seem relevant, and any medicines or supplements. Bring details of previous tests. The GP may suggest regular meals, fluids, gradual dietary changes, movement, stress support, or symptom-specific medicine. Make changes one at a time when possible so you can tell what helps.

Contact a clinician promptly for blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, persistent fever, repeated vomiting, severe or worsening abdominal pain, or a new change in bowel habit that does not settle. Seek urgent help for sudden severe pain, fainting, a swollen abdomen with inability to pass stool or gas, or signs of dehydration.

Ask which features support IBS, which tests are being considered and why, how to adjust your diet safely, and when you should return. Ask what symptom changes would suggest another condition and how your treatment plan will be reviewed.