Charting Your IBS Symptoms

When you go to see your doctor, think about the information you need to impart about your IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). Explain if anyone in your family has a history of bowel trouble and explain when your symptoms began. Tell your doctor what treatment options you’ve tried and how successful they’ve been.

It’s also useful to fill out a questionnaire about your symptoms, such as this one.

Describe your symptoms. Tick all that apply.

• Abdominal cramping

• Abdominal pain on the left side

• Diarrhoea

• Bloating

• Constipation

• Straining with a bowel movement

• Wind

• Other ____________________

How long have you had these symptoms?

• A few weeks

• About 3 months

• About 6 months

• About 1 year

• About 5 years

• 5 to 10 years

How often do you have these symptoms?

• Once per month

• Once per week

• Every day

• Several times per day

• Constantly