Seven types, from hard lumps to watery. Pick the closest match, not a perfect one.
Log For Your Loglogforyourlog.com
Type 1
Separate hard lumps, like nuts. Hard to pass.
Constipated end of the scale.
Type 2
Sausage shaped but lumpy.
Still on the constipated side.
Type 3
Like a sausage with cracks on the surface.
Comfortable range, a little firm.
Type 4
Smooth and soft, like a sausage or snake.
Comfortable range. Easy to pass.
Type 5
Soft blobs with clear edges. Passed easily.
On the loose side.
Type 6
Fluffy, mushy pieces with ragged edges.
Loose. Mild diarrhea territory.
Type 7
Watery, with no solid pieces.
Diarrhea.
Types 1 and 2: constipationTypes 3 and 4: healthy, easy to passTypes 5 to 7: diarrhea or urgency
How to use it
Log the type right after you go, with the time.
Add a word of context: meals, water, sleep, stress.
Look at two weeks, not one day. Most people sit at type 3 or 4 most of the time.
Bring the log to appointments.
Talk to a doctor if you notice
Blood in your poo, or black, tarry poo
Pale, clay colored or white poo
Losing weight without trying
Severe or ongoing tummy pain
A change from your usual pattern lasting more than a few weeks
Diarrhea with dizziness or very little urine
Two week food and symptom diary
One line per bowel movement or symptom. Rate symptoms 0 (none) to 10 (worst).
Log For Your Loglogforyourlog.com
Date
Time
Type 1 to 7
Color
Meals and drinks
Symptoms 0 to 10
Notes
Two lines per day for two weeks. Use more sheets if you need them. Example line: Tue 14 · 8:10 · 4 · brown · oat porridge, coffee · bloating 2 · slept badly