Constipation vs IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
Constipation and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) are conditions that share some reported symptoms, which can make them easy to confuse. This guide explains the key similarities, how each is described, and how providers may investigate them. Educational content only - not a diagnosis.
About Constipation and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
Constipation: Infrequent or difficult bowel movements, often caused by diet, dehydration, medications, or underlying conditions.
IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome): A common functional disorder of the large intestine causing cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation.
Symptoms shared by both conditions
These symptoms have been reported in association with both Constipation and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome).
Abdominal distention
Distention of the abdomen....
Abdominal pain
An unpleasant sensation characterized by physical discomfort (such as pricking, throbbing, or aching) and perc...
Bloating
A feeling of fullness, pressure, or swelling in the abdomen, often related to gas, digestion, or fluid retenti...
Symptoms of each condition
Constipation
Abdominal distention
Distention of the abdomen....
Abdominal pain
An unpleasant sensation characterized by physical discomfort (such as pricking, throbbing, or aching) and perc...
Bloating
A feeling of fullness, pressure, or swelling in the abdomen, often related to gas, digestion, or fluid retenti...
Chronic constipation
Constipation for longer than three months with fewer than 3 bowel movements per week, straining, lumpy or hard...
Straining with Bowel Movements
The need to strain excessively to pass stool, which can be a sign of constipation....
IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
Abdominal distention
Distention of the abdomen....
Abdominal pain
An unpleasant sensation characterized by physical discomfort (such as pricking, throbbing, or aching) and perc...
Bloating
A feeling of fullness, pressure, or swelling in the abdomen, often related to gas, digestion, or fluid retenti...
Constipation
Infrequent or difficult evacuation of feces....
Diarrhea
Abnormally increased frequency (usually defined as three or more) loose or watery bowel movements a day....
How Constipation may be investigated
Healthcare providers may order these tests when evaluating Constipation.
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
Measures 14 substances in the blood to assess kidney and liver function, electrolyte balance, and blood sugar ...
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
Screens for thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism....
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Constipation and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)?
Constipation and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) are distinct conditions that share some reported symptoms, which is why they can be confused. Constipation: Infrequent or difficult bowel movements, often caused by diet, dehydration, medications, or underlying conditions. IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome): A common functional disorder of the large intestine causing cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation. This content is informational, not a diagnosis.
Can Constipation and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) be mistaken for each other?
Yes - because they share symptoms such as Abdominal distention, Abdominal pain, Bloating, they may present similarly. A qualified healthcare provider distinguishes them through history, examination, and testing.
How are Constipation and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) investigated?
Testing depends on the specific condition and presentation. A provider may order tests such as Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP), Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). Test selection is a clinical decision.