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Conditions in Depth

This page contains the basic information about Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) .

Return to the Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Main Condition Center

When to Call A Doctor

It is useful for anyone with irritable bowel symptoms to discuss their symptoms with a doctor, so that diet, fiber and drug treatment strategies can be planned.

After you have been diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome, contact your doctor if you have:

  • an episode of severe symptoms

  • unexplained weight loss or fever

  • blood in your stool

  • abdominal pain that is accompanied by vomiting, dizziness or fainting

  • abdominal pain or diarrhea that awakens you from sleep.

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Created: 4/27/2004   |   Last Modified: 8/21/2006
From Health A-Z, Harvard Health Publications. Copyright 2006 by the President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Written permission is required to reproduce, in any manner, in whole or in part, the material contained herein. To make a reprint request, contact Harvard Health Publications. Used with permission of StayWell.