SYMPTOMS

Diagnostic criteria for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) include recurrent abdominal pain or discomfort at least 3 days per month in the past 3 months associated with two or more of the following:

• Improvement (Pain reduction) with defecation
• Onset associated with a change in the frequency of bowel motion
• Onset associated with a change in the form (appearance) of stool; and/or
• Criteria fulfilled for the past 3 months with symptom onset at least 6 months before diagnosis.

Discomfort means an uncomfortable sensation not described as pain. During screening evaluation, pain or discomfort frequency must be at least 2 days per week to qualify subjects for clinical trials. (1)

It is well established that IBS symptoms give feelings of shame, fearfulness and embarrassment, while patients also report being misunderstood by their doctors, their family members and friends. (12)