Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome, mild: Occasional episodes of altered bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea), minimal abdominal discomfort, symptoms controlled with diet and/or OTC medications, not interfering with daily activities.

Irritable bowel syndrome, moderate: Frequent episodes of bowel disturbance (diarrhea, constipation, or alternating) with abdominal pain/cramping occurring more than once per week; requiring prescription medications; some limitation of daily activities.

Abdominal pain related to defecation for at least three days per month during the previous three months; and two or more of the following: (1) change in stool frequency, (2) change in stool form, (3) altered stool passage (straining and/or urgency), (4) mucorrhea, (5) abdominal bloating, or (6) subjective distension

Irritable bowel syndrome, severe: Daily or near-daily symptoms of bowel disturbance, pain, and/or bloating; with frequent urgency and incontinence episodes; significantly interfering with daily activities, employment, or social functioning; multiple medication trials required.