What type of digestive problems are you experiencing? Dealing with IBS is not easy, as the causes of IBS differ from person to person. The varying causes, as well as the diverse array of symptoms that my present themselves as a result of IBS make it a very challenging condition for doctors to recognize, as well as treat. This diagnosis period can be very frustrating for those suffering from these digestive anomalies.

What is most important is discovering the root cause of your symptoms, as it is from this knowledge that you are able to structure an effective treatment plan. What tests have been conducted thus far in your medical visits?

While hundreds of potential causes exist, most cases of IBS result from issues that fall within one of two major categories:

(1) food allergies and intolerances
(2) problems with intestinal bacteria, yeast/candida, or parasites.

Have you been tested for food allergies or for any bacterial or yeast overgrowth? If not, I would recommend getting these tests done.

The allergy test must be a blood test and include BOTH IgE and IgG antibodies to guarantee that no food allergies are missed.
Testing for bacteria, yeast, and parasites is done by stool testing. While problems in just one of these areas can alone cause IBS, most people find that their IBS is caused by a combination of both a food allergy and a bacterial imbalance.
The blood and stool tests are widely available, straightforward, and affordable.
Have you ever read “The Irritable Bowel Syndrome Solution” by Dr. Stephen Wangen? I would highly recommend this text – it will definitely help to clear up some of the confusion surrounding IBS.

I have also found the author’s website http://www.ibstreatmentcenter.com to be extremely helpful – packed with a lot of great info on the symptoms, causes, and various treatments for IBS.

Continue to ask questions, and ask for further explanation during your visits. IBS is a tricky condition, but it should not interfere with living your life.