how do i get tested

I think the first step to definitely find a rheumatologist. There are so specific tests for IBS but they will use their expertise and experience along with other factors to determine if they think you have it. Every person is different and the disease is such an individual illness, it is difficult to tell just from here so it really is the smartest and most prudent thing. Let us know if you need any help! Keep on keepin' on, DPM

, It all starts with a good gastroenterologist. They will do bloodwork, urine tests, stool tests, breath tests, colonoscopies and endoscopies with pathology tests.
IBS is a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning all other possible illnesses have already been looked for and had negative results. If your GI is skipping over all or some of those diagnostic tests and rushing to diagnosis IBS, find a better doctor.

IBS isn't something that can be tested for! Yes...weird.
The only thing that can be done is test for other things, and when those tests come up negative (i.e. nothing untoward is found), then usually IBS is the conclusion.

My doctor started with listening to me describe my symptoms. He took a blood test, and gave me 2 kits for stool sample checks. He told me that if any "red flags" were seen on any of the tests, the next step would be a colonoscopy, just to see if anything unusual could be seen, and it would be taken from there.

The stool checks were basically 1) for any hidden traces of blood, and 2) a "Calprotectin" test to see if there was inflammation. The blood test was for any other markers that might have shown I had other physical problems which might be related to symptoms, or might show anything suspect going on in my system.

All tests were normal, so it didn't need further investigation in his opinion, but he did tell me to go back to him if there were any major changes.

So those are the basic first steps you could take?

If IBS is the conclusion, but you are still suffering then there are a few things you could try, and don't be shy to ask for help from your healthcare system. You might not always get something that does help, but some things can help.
There are certain drugs that can be helpful, or a trial of the Low FODMAP diet to identify possibly any food intolerances. If you do that, it's better to do it with a dietician's support so mention that to your doctor too. Or he/she might suggest it anyway?

In time you might find out which foods suit you best and which are irritant, and how to manage symptoms with diet. You might find out your IBS is related to stress, and how to cope with that. You might find a drug protocol which helps you.

But to start, just make an appointment with your health care provider and take it from there.
I do warn you that it's not going to be an easy fix if it is IBS. But don't give up hope! IBS can certainly improve with careful management. Mine has!