Is it possible to have IBS if you don't have diarrhea or constipation?

Question

I have been experiencing severe abdominal pain that radiates to the back and right side, belching, and reflux for serveral months. It occurs after meals and at night (mostly). The doc ran some tests and told me that I had IBS. But how is this possible if I don't have constipation or diarrhea?

Thanks

Answer 1

I have no idea what tests were run, but your symptoms sound classic for gallbladder problems. IBS usually falls into either/or diarrhea/constipation as you say. However, there may be periods during which IBS patients have "normal" bowel function.

I'd get another opinion from a doctor and maybe ask about getting an ultrasound of the gallbladder. Good luck.

Answer 2

I would get a referral to a GI doctor. Sometimes you'll get the diagnosis of IBS just because they don't know what it is.

Your description doesn't scream the following idea or anything, but considering how common they've found it is - 1 in 133 people in the US have it, but only 2% know they have it - it's worth it for you to look at the information.

But I would ask for a referral regardless --

They're starting to recommend that people with IBS, or IBS-like symptoms be tested for celiac disease, which is an intolerance to gluten (wheat, rye, barley and oats). A lot of people with celiac were misdiagnosed as having IBS for years. (18 years for me). It takes an average of 11 years for a person with celiac to be diagnosed.

Here's a webpage by the National Institutes of Health on celiac -
http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases...

If that starts sounding familiar here are a couple of message boards for people with celiac and other gluten intolerances.

http://www.glutenfreeforum.com
http://www.celiacforums.com

You can also be intolerant to other common foods. Soy, corn, eggs, yeast, dairy, etc. You may want to think about keeping a food/symptoms journal and see if you can identify the culprit(s).

I hope you feel better soon.

Nancy

Answer 3

I have IBS and I do not have alot of diarrhea or consipation but I do have alot of cramping.Sometimes I'm irregular but most the time I'm ok. It just depends .my mom can't even eat fast food it goes right through her.when I'm upset I gotta go now so it will all depend on you. however if you feel u don't have IBS consult another dr or few untill ur happy.

Answer 4

Unfortunately its just the way it is, and its horrible.