Table 1.

Rome II and III criteria for chronic constipation (30)

Diagnostic criteria	Symptoms
Rome II In at least 12 weeks, which need not be consecutive, in the preceding 12 months, ≥ 2 symptoms must be present	Straining in > 25% of bowel movements Hard or lumpy stools in > 25% of bowel movements Sensation of incomplete evacuation in > 25% of bowel movements Sensation of anorectal obstruction/blockade in > 25% of bowel movements Manual manoeuvres to facilitate > 25% of bowel movements (digital disimpaction) < 3 bowel movements per week Loose stool is not present, and criteria for irritable bowel syndrome are not fulfilled
Rome III Presence of ≥ 2 symptoms	Straining during ≥ 25% of defecations Lumpy or hard stools in ≥ 25% of defecations Sensation of incomplete evacuation for ≥ 25% of defecations Sensation of anorectal obstruction/blockage for ≥ 25% of defecations Manual manoeuvres to facilitate ≥ 25% of defecations (digital manipulations, pelvic floor support) < 3 evacuations per week Loose stools are rarely present without the use of laxatives Insufficient criteria for irritable bowel syndrome Criteria fulfilled for the last 3 months, and symptom onset ≥ 6 months prior to diagnosis