Bristol Stool Form Scale
Classifies stool consistency into 7 types. Used clinically to assess bowel function, guide diagnosis of IBS, constipation, and diarrhoea, and monitor treatment response.
Score interpretation
Types 1–2 — constipation. Stool transit time >72 hours.
→ Increase dietary fibre, fluid intake; consider osmotic laxatives; rule out bowel obstruction if severe
Types 3–4 — normal stool consistency and transit time
→ No intervention required; maintain diet and hydration
Types 5–7 — loose stools or diarrhoea. Stool transit time <10 hours.
→ Assess for infection, IBD, IBS-D, bile acid malabsorption, medications; stool culture if febrile; rehydration
Interpretation bands for the Bristol Stool Scale. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Lewis SJ, Heaton KW. Stool form scale as a useful guide to intestinal transit time. Scand J Gastroenterol. 1997;32(9):920–924.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Macrogol (Polyethylene Glycol) · Osmotic Laxative — Bowel Preparation / Constipation
- Tirzepatide · Dual GIP/GLP-1 Receptor Agonist — Type 2 Diabetes / Obesity
- Nicotinamide · Vitamin B3 (amide form)
- Botulinum Toxin Type A (ENT) · Neuromuscular Blocking Agent (Botulinum Toxin)
- Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate · Vitamin E (Ester Form, Fat-Soluble Vitamin)
- Sodium Picosulfate · Stimulant Laxative / Bowel Preparation Agent
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.