You must take several medical examinations before a diagnosis can be established. Peptic ulcer, hiatus hernia, gastritis, enterocolitis, diverticulosis, parasite infestation (worms) must all be excluded before the diagnosis "IBS" is established. A gastroscopy, colonoscopy, ultrasound, coprocultura and anal smear (for examining bacteria and parasites) can also be performed. Finally, standard blood analyses are required... and if everything returns "normal", then you probably suffer from IBS.
There are a number of different treatments and therapies for IBS. Many of these measures can be combined to effectively reduce the pain and other symptoms of IBS. Because of the wide variability of symptoms in people with this condition, different treatments and therapies work for different people. Treatment is usually a long-term process; during this process, it is important to maintain good communication with your doctor about your symptoms, your concerns, and any psychological and social issues that arise.