Is it likely that I have IBS even if I do not have any problems with diarrhea, o!

Is it likely that I have IBS even if I do not have any problems with diarrhea, or constipation?

I have constant gas and frequent but intermittent stomach aches. I have not been officially diagnosed with IBS or any other disease, but I have not seen a doctor regarding my problem. I will probably go see one soon, since the problem has gotten worse over the last year. I don't seem to have any trouble digesting any particular kind of food and I do not eat much dairy. I definitely am not lactose intolerant, but I can't rule out a different food sensitivity. I do often eat vegetables, beans, and other common sources of gas, but not in huge amounts. What do you think is wrong? And is IBS merely a diagnosis of exclusion?

Yes, IBS is a rule out diagnosis. I would not speculate on what your condition is. That would be foolish. However, the main symptoms of IBS are abdominal pain, sometimes severe, or discomfort that is relieved by or caused by a bowel movement, diarrhea or constipation that can alternate, white mucus in the stool, gas and abdominal bloating and a constant feeling that you haven't quite finished a bowel movement. You might try a simethicone product to relieve the gas.

I see that "stomach swelling" was mentioned in the answer above mine. There's a big difference between the stomach and the abdomen and many people use the two interchangeably especially when referring to pain. The stomach is in the upper left portion of the abdominal cavity and is partly under the ribs. The abdomen is the entire area below the ribs and diaphragm and above the pubic area and contains many organs besides the stomach.

Make an appointment to see your doctor and find out what's really going on. I would advise against soliciting a diagnosis online. You can't get one.