Table 2 Rome III diagnostic criteria for chronic constipation
From: Chronic constipation in the elderly: a primer for the gastroenterologist
| 1-MUST INCLUDE TWO OR MORE OF THE FOLLOWING: |
| a. Straining during at least 25 % of defecations |
| b. Lumpy or hard stools in at least 25 % of defecations |
| c. Sensation of incomplete evacuation for at least 25 % of defecations |
| d. Sensation of anorectal obstruction/blockage for at least 25 % of defecations |
| e. Manual maneuvers to facilitate at least 25 % of defecations (e.g., digital evacuation, support of the pelvic floor) |
| f. Fewer than three defecations per week |
| 2-LOOSE STOOLS ARE RARELY PRESENT WITHOUT THE USE OF LAXATIVES |
| 3-INSUFFICIENT CRITERIA FOR IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME |
