The present invention provides a method for assessing bowel function in a patient, comprising providing the patient with a numeric analog scale for at least one parameter which is a measure of bowel function; causing the patient to indicate on the numeric analog scale the amount and/or intensity of the parameter being experienced; and observing the amount and/or intensity of the at least one parameter indicated on the numeric analog scale in order to assess bowel function. Further, the present invention provides a device for assessing bowel function in a patient, the device comprising a display unit for providing a numeric analog scale for at least one parameter which is associated with bowel function of a patient; a receiving unit adapted to receive an amount and/or intensity of the at least one parameter indicated by the patient on the numeric analog scale; and an interface unit adapted to provide the amount and/or intensity of the at least one parameter indicated on the numeric analog scale in order to assess bowel function.