It is difficult to define IBS-C. The Rome criteria is based on motility and form. I thought I was IBS-C for many years until a GI doc straightened me out He also told me that docs that listen to what patients think they are (IBS-C or IBS-D) can be misleading some times resulting in the wrong treatment. If you are in doubt talk to your GI doc.
Here is a more complete definition:
Constipation is difficult to characterize as it has varied meanings to different people. It is often based on a patient's impression that their bowel function is not normal. Defining constipation in a scientific manner has been problematic. Currently, the Rome III criteria are the most widely accepted means used to define constipation. At least two of the following conditions must be present for at least 3 months:
- Straining during defecation > 25% of the time
- Lumpy or hard stools > 25% of the time
- Sensation of incomplete evacuation > 25% of the time
- Sensation of anorectal obstruction > 25% of the time
- Manual maneuvers to facilitate defecation > 25% of the time
- < 3 bowel movements/week
You might have to keep a detailed stool diary for a few weeks to figure it out.
-------------------- STABLE: ♂, IBS-D 50+ years - Science of IBS
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Re: Am I IBS-D? Unsure how to categorize
He also told me that docs that listen to what patients think they are (IBS-C or IBS-D) can be misleading some times resulting in the wrong treatment. If you are in doubt talk to your GI doc.
