Do You Have IBS? Symptom Checker

Do You Have IBS? A Quiz to Self-Check

You might not need a formal quiz to know something’s off. But asking yourself the right questions can help you understand whether what you’re experiencing could be signs of IBS.

Here are a few to consider:

• Do you regularly feel bloated, even after small meals?
  Bloating is one of the most common and frustrating signs of IBS.
• Is your stomach pain or cramping linked to your bowel movements?
  If the pain eases after going to the bathroom, that could be a clue.
• Have your bathroom habits changed, like going too often or not enough?
  IBS often involves diarrhea, constipation, or a mix of both.
• Do you feel like your symptoms come and go without a clear reason?
  IBS tends to be unpredictable, with flare-ups triggered by stress, food, or even hormones.
• Have you had these symptoms for more than a few months?
  IBS is considered a chronic condition. Persistent symptoms are worth looking into.

What to Do with Your Answers

If you found yourself nodding “yes” to several of these, your symptoms may align with IBS, but it’s important to remember that other conditions can cause similar issues too.

Note: This quiz is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for a professional medical diagnosis. Always consult a healthcare provider.

Still Not Sure? Try the IBS Symptom Checker

If you're nodding along to more than one of these questions, it might be time to get a clearer picture. Docus AI IBS Symptom Checker uses your symptoms to help suggest possible causes.

What Is IBS?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that affects how your digestive system works. 

IBS is a functional disorder, meaning your symptoms are real, but routine tests may not show any visible damage in your gut. That’s why diagnosis is usually based on your symptoms. Doctors may also run blood tests, stool tests, or even a colonoscopy to rule out other conditions.

Common IBS Symptoms

IBS can look different from person to person. Some experience diarrhea, others deal with constipation, and many switch between the two. Symptoms may come and go or stick around for weeks at a time.

Here are some of the most common signs:

• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Bloating or excess gas
• Diarrhea, constipation, or a mix of both
• Mucus in your stool
• A feeling like your bowels didn’t fully empty

What Causes IBS?

The exact cause of IBS isn’t fully understood, but several factors seem to play a role. Most experts believe it’s linked to how your gut and brain communicate - a connection that affects digestion, sensitivity, and even how your body reacts to stress.

Other possible contributors include:

• Chronic stress or anxiety
• Food sensitivities or intolerances
• Hormonal changes, especially in women
• Past gut infections or food poisoning

These factors can work alone or together, and the impact varies from person to person.

IBS Triggers to Watch For

Certain things can make IBS symptoms worse, even if they’re not the root cause. Paying attention to your triggers can help reduce flare-ups.

Common triggers include:

• Caffeine or alcohol
• Spicy or fatty foods
• Large meals or eating too quickly
• Menstrual cycles (for women)
• Lack of sleep or irregular routines

How Is IBS Managed?

There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for IBS, but the good news is that many people find relief by making a few key changes in their daily habits. Treatment is highly individual: what works for one person might not work for another.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Simple changes can go a long way in calming IBS symptoms:

• Eat smaller, more regular meals throughout the day
• Cut back on caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated drinks
• Try to reduce stress with exercise, meditation, or breathing techniques

Dietary Changes

What you eat matters - and how your gut reacts to food can vary:

• A low FODMAP diet (low in certain hard-to-digest carbs) can reduce bloating and discomfort, but it's best followed with the help of a professional
• Keep a food diary to spot personal triggers and patterns

Psychological Support

Your gut and brain are closely linked - so emotional health plays a role too:

• Some people benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Managing anxiety, depression, or trauma can ease digestive symptoms
• Prioritize sleep, boundaries, and mental wellness

Professional Guidance

• A gastroenterologist can help rule out other conditions and guide treatment
• Some people may need medications or more structured care
• Remember: IBS is manageable, and you're not alone in figuring it out

When to See a Doctor

While IBS itself isn’t dangerous, some symptoms should never be ignored. It’s time to consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

• Sudden changes in your usual symptoms
• Unexplained weight loss
• Blood in your stool
• Ongoing fever
• Digestive symptoms that wake you up at night

If you notice any of these, it’s important to rule out more serious conditions.

If some of these symptoms sound familiar, you don’t have to guess. Docus Symptom Checker helps you make sense of what you’re feeling, whether it’s IBS or something else.

Always follow up with a healthcare provider to confirm your results and explore next steps.