the Shift from Constipation to Diarrhea: A Surgical Perspective

Diarrhea?

Hello, about a week ago, I visited a colorectal specialist.
I inquired with the doctor because over the past six months, I have experienced occasional constipation, and sometimes when I drink less water, I have to exert a lot of effort during bowel movements.
Gradually, I noticed that after I finished, when I went to urinate a few minutes later, there would be some yellow fluid leaking from my anus.
So, I changed my habits to avoid straining so much.
After about two months, the fluid did not appear again, but that day I went to the colorectal clinic because the fluid reappeared, along with some slight blood streaks.
The doctor performed a digital examination and said I had an inflamed internal hemorrhoid, so I was given medication to use.
Prior to this, my stool color and consistency were quite normal.
However, on the third day, when I slightly strained during a bowel movement, I noticed blood when wiping, but the stool itself did not appear to have blood or mucus.
I then used a different type of suppository because I had to switch to another clinic.
After that, my stool became unformed, and I felt a bit like I had diarrhea, which lasted for about two to three days.
Strangely, I also passed some very thin, pencil-like stools, as well as some that were about the width of a finger, which continued for about three days.
However, in the last two days, it turned into diarrhea again, and I noticed a jelly-like mucus that was dark brown in color, while the diarrhea itself was yellow.
I only have a bowel movement once a day in the morning.
What could be going on? Could my mood be affecting this? How could everything change so much in just about a week?

Liu Xiaojie, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/09

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Based on your description, it seems more like irritable bowel syndrome, and hemorrhoids can also cause mild bleeding.
It is recommended to start with a light diet and maintain a good lifestyle.
If the symptoms persist without improvement, you may ask a physician for medication.
If there is still no improvement or if you are very concerned, you can also schedule a colonoscopy.

Reply Date: 2016/04/09

More Info

The transition from constipation to diarrhea, especially following a surgical procedure or treatment for rectal issues, can be concerning and may indicate several underlying factors. Based on your description, it seems that you have experienced a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including constipation, the passage of yellow fluid, and now diarrhea with mucus and blood. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what might be happening and some considerations from a medical perspective.

Understanding the Symptoms
1. Constipation and Straining: Chronic constipation can lead to straining during bowel movements, which may cause anal fissures or hemorrhoids. These conditions can result in inflammation and bleeding, which might explain the yellow fluid and blood you observed. The straining can also lead to rectal pressure and discomfort.

2. Rectal Inflammation: The presence of yellow fluid and blood suggests that there may be some inflammation or irritation in the rectal area, possibly due to hemorrhoids or anal fissures. The fact that your doctor noted inflammation of an internal hemorrhoid is significant. This condition can cause discomfort and may lead to changes in bowel habits.

3. Change in Bowel Habits: The shift from constipation to diarrhea can occur for several reasons. After experiencing constipation, your bowel may become more reactive, leading to a sudden increase in motility. This can result in loose stools or diarrhea, especially if there is irritation in the rectal area.

4. Mucus in Stool: The presence of mucus, especially if it appears jelly-like and is accompanied by changes in stool consistency, can indicate inflammation in the intestines. This can be due to various factors, including dietary changes, infections, or inflammatory bowel disease.

5. Emotional Factors: Stress and anxiety can significantly impact gastrointestinal function. The gut-brain connection is well-documented, and emotional distress can lead to changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation.

Recommendations for Management
1. Dietary Adjustments: Ensure you are consuming a balanced diet rich in fiber to help regulate bowel movements. Staying hydrated is crucial, as dehydration can exacerbate constipation and lead to further complications.

2. Avoid Straining: It’s essential to avoid straining during bowel movements. If you experience pain or discomfort, consider using stool softeners or laxatives as recommended by your healthcare provider.

3. Follow-Up Care: Since you have already seen a doctor, it’s important to follow up if symptoms persist or worsen. Your healthcare provider may recommend further evaluation, such as a colonoscopy, to rule out any serious conditions.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your bowel habits, noting any changes in consistency, color, and the presence of blood or mucus. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider in determining the next steps.

5. Stress Management: If you suspect that stress is contributing to your symptoms, consider incorporating stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or counseling.

Conclusion
The transition from constipation to diarrhea, particularly following a period of straining and rectal inflammation, can be multifactorial. It’s essential to address both the physical and emotional aspects of your symptoms. Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is crucial to ensure that any underlying issues are appropriately managed and to prevent complications. If you experience severe symptoms, such as significant bleeding, severe pain, or persistent diarrhea, seek medical attention promptly.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Changes in Bowel Movements: From Formed to Diarrhea

Hello, doctor. During my midterm exam today, I suddenly experienced intermittent cramping in my abdomen. I hurriedly submitted my exam and went to the restroom. At first, I had to exert some effort to pass my stool, but then it turned into a more diarrhea-like consistency. Howeve...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Sudden changes may be influenced by emotions or food and cannot yet be classified as a change in bowel habits. If it persists, you may consider consulting a gastroenterologist. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.

Understanding Digestive Issues: From Constipation to Diarrhea

Hello Doctor: I have had a long-term poor diet, averaging a bowel movement every four days. Later, I improved my daily diet by eating a lot of vegetables and probiotics or yogurt. My bowel habits improved to about every two days, but soon I noticed my stools became loose. After b...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It may still be an abnormality in gastrointestinal motility. It is recommended to seek medical attention for a routine stool examination, and if necessary, the physician will determine whether further endoscopy is required. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Ts...

Understanding Digestive Issues: From Diarrhea to Constipation

I used to have daily bowel movements without paying attention to the appearance of my stool. Last week, after possibly consuming spoiled food, I experienced severe diarrhea, to the point where it was more than urination. After taking medication similar to loperamide, the diarrhea...

Dr. Yang Zhichao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Ms. BU, your symptoms are likely a post-gastroenteritis condition. Please monitor your situation for a few days, and if your bowel movements do not return to normal, please visit the gastroenterology department at the internal medicine clinic. Thank you for your inquiry, and Chan...

Understanding the Shift from Constipation to Diarrhea: Causes and Solutions

Last week, I experienced severe constipation, and even when I did have a bowel movement, it was only small, thin stools. After taking the medication prescribed by my doctor to assist with bowel movements, I have had watery stools for an entire week, which are column-shaped and si...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
You can consider stopping the medication or reducing the dosage by half to see how it goes.