Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Constipation Predominant vs IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Constipation Predominant 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 Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Constipation Predominant and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Constipation Predominant: A subtype of IBS characterized by constipation with abdominal pain and bloating.
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 Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Constipation Predominant 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...
Constipation
Infrequent or difficult evacuation of feces....
Symptoms of each condition
Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Constipation Predominant
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....
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 Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Constipation Predominant may be investigated
Healthcare providers may order these tests when evaluating Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Constipation Predominant.
Celiac Disease Panel
Screens for markers of celiac disease including tTG-IgA....
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
Screens for thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism....
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Constipation Predominant and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Constipation Predominant and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) are distinct conditions that share some reported symptoms, which is why they can be confused. Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Constipation Predominant: A subtype of IBS characterized by constipation with abdominal pain and bloating. 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 Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Constipation Predominant and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) be mistaken for each other?
Yes - because they share symptoms such as Abdominal distention, Abdominal pain, Bloating, Constipation, they may present similarly. A qualified healthcare provider distinguishes them through history, examination, and testing.
How are Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Constipation Predominant and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) investigated?
Testing depends on the specific condition and presentation. A provider may order tests such as Celiac Disease Panel, Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). Test selection is a clinical decision.