Has anybody else been tested for several things that lead to nothing?

Hi kjayy2017 - thanks so much for submitting your question! Unfortunately, we've heard from many here that the diagnosis process is often not straight forward. This is mostly because IBS is diagnosed after excluding other conditions. What has been your experience so far with trying to get some answers? - Chris, IrritableBowelSyndrome.net Team Member

Yes. Before I was diagnosed with IBS, I had a colonoscopy and upper endoscopy. I was given a breath test to check for small intestine bacterial overgrowth. I was also checked for H-pylori. Fortunately, all of those turned out well. I had a sitz marker test which showed slow colonic function (constipation) and later a nuclear medicine test that showed the opposite (diarrhea). There was also a bunch of tests to determine the muscle and nerve functions of the pelvic floor and bowel.

With each test, I held hope of finding answers and possible treatment options, so I could get back to living without fear of debilitating symptoms and humiliating "accidents." I still don't have definitive answers. I have tried many ways to manage my condition, but I have not had much success. It is frustrating.

For me, the worst part of IBS is that it is often unpredictable and intermittent. Sure, there are things I can predict might set off a flare, but there are many times that I am surprised by a flare up and clueless as to what caused it. I can never know how long one is going to last. Sometimes when I am certain my colon must finally be empty, I'm proven wrong and have to make a mad dash to the nearest bathroom--hoping I make it on time. That is harder for me than the intense pain and nausea.

Unfortunately, yes......several timeS

I understand stand that completely!!!!…The not making it on time is frustrating…aggravating…humiliating…

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