How to Ask About Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Symptoms in Spanish

When you suspect a patient may be suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), it’s important to ask targeted questions to understand their symptoms. Below are common questions healthcare professionals can ask, along with their Spanish translations.

Key Questions to Ask About IBS Symptoms

1. Do you have abdominal pain?
   • ¿Tiene dolor abdominal?
2. Do you have cramping or bloating?
   • ¿Tiene calambres o hinchazón?
3. Have you experienced any changes in the appearance of your bowel movement?
   • ¿Ha notado algún cambio en la apariencia de sus heces?
4. Have you noticed any changes in how often you are having a bowel movement?
   • ¿Ha notado algún cambio en la frecuencia con que tiene deposiciones?

Asking About Triggers

IBS can often be triggered by certain foods, stress, or other factors. Here are some questions to ask regarding potential triggers:

5. Have you noticed that certain foods trigger your symptoms?
   • ¿Ha notado que ciertos alimentos desencadenan sus síntomas?
6. Do you feel worse after eating specific foods, like dairy or fried foods?
   • ¿Se siente peor después de comer alimentos específicos, como lácteos o comida frita?
7. Do you experience more symptoms when you are stressed?
   • ¿Tiene más síntomas cuando está estresado/a?

Example Dialogue

• Paciente: Me siento hinchado después de comer.
  (Patient: I feel bloated after eating.)
• Doctor: ¿Cuándo comenzó a notar los cambios en sus deposiciones?
  (Doctor: When did you start noticing changes in your bowel movements?)

This guide should help you navigate consultations with Spanish-speaking patients who may have IBS symptoms. By asking these questions, you’ll be better able to assess their condition and provide appropriate care.