Bowel Issues: When to Seek Medical Attention for Symptoms

Bowel movement issues?

Doctor, for the past few months, I have been feeling the urge to use the bathroom frequently, about 5 to 6 times a day.
Usually, the most significant urge occurs in the morning after waking up, while the other times I only pass a small amount.
I often feel like I haven't completely emptied my bowels, which leads me to keep going to the bathroom.
Sometimes, while showering, I notice a soft lump protruding from my anus, but it goes back in after a while.
However, I still feel like there is something inside my rectum.
I haven't experienced any blood during bowel movements, but I do feel a swelling sensation around my anus and rectum.
I have used hemorrhoid ointments and consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, but it doesn't seem to help much.
I'm worried this might be rectal cancer.
Should I go to the hospital for an examination?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/07/01

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Doctor, for the past few months, I have been feeling the urge to use the restroom frequently, about 5 to 6 times a day.
Usually, the most significant urge occurs in the morning after I wake up, while the other times I only pass a small amount.
I often feel like I haven't completely emptied my bowels, which leads me to keep going back to the bathroom.
Sometimes, while showering, I notice a soft lump protruding from my anus, but after a while, it retracts on its own.
However, I still have the sensation of something being inside my rectum.
I do not experience any blood during bowel movements, but I do feel swelling around the anus and rectum.
I have tried using hemorrhoid ointment and have also consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, but it doesn't seem to help much.
I am worried that this could be rectal cancer.
Should I go to the hospital for an examination?

Reply Date: 2016/07/01

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a range of gastrointestinal symptoms that are understandably causing you concern. Based on your description, it seems you are dealing with frequent bowel movements, a sensation of incomplete evacuation, and some discomfort in the anal area, which may include the presence of a soft tissue protrusion. While I cannot provide a definitive diagnosis, I can offer some insights into your symptoms and when it is advisable to seek medical attention.

Firstly, the symptoms you describe, such as frequent urges to defecate and the feeling of incomplete evacuation, could be indicative of several conditions, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which is characterized by chronic abdominal discomfort and altered bowel habits. IBS can manifest as diarrhea, constipation, or a combination of both, and is often exacerbated by stress or dietary factors. The sensation of having something in the rectum and the soft tissue that protrudes could suggest the presence of hemorrhoids or possibly a rectal prolapse, which is when part of the rectum protrudes through the anus.

The fact that you do not see blood in your stool is a positive sign, as rectal bleeding can be associated with more serious conditions, including colorectal cancer. However, the presence of swelling and discomfort in the anal area, along with your other symptoms, warrants further investigation. While hemorrhoids are common and can cause significant discomfort, it is essential to rule out other potential issues, especially given your concerns about rectal cancer.

When to seek medical attention is a crucial question. Here are some guidelines:
1. Persistent Symptoms: If your symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Chronic changes in bowel habits, especially if they are accompanied by discomfort, should not be ignored.

2. Changes in Stool Characteristics: If you notice any significant changes in the color, consistency, or frequency of your stool, especially if they are accompanied by other symptoms like weight loss, fatigue, or changes in appetite, you should seek medical advice.

3. Anal Discomfort: The sensation of a lump or protrusion in the anal area, especially if it is new or changing, should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. This could be indicative of hemorrhoids, but other conditions need to be ruled out.

4. Family History: If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or other gastrointestinal diseases, it is prudent to be more vigilant about your symptoms and seek medical evaluation sooner.

5. Mental Health Impact: If your symptoms are causing significant anxiety or affecting your quality of life, it is essential to seek help. Gastrointestinal symptoms can often be linked to stress and anxiety, and addressing these underlying issues can be beneficial.

In terms of what to expect during a medical evaluation, your healthcare provider may recommend a physical examination, including a digital rectal exam, and possibly further diagnostic tests such as a colonoscopy or imaging studies to assess the condition of your intestines and rule out any serious pathology.

In the meantime, consider keeping a symptom diary to track your bowel habits, dietary intake, and any associated symptoms. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in determining the best course of action.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may not necessarily indicate a severe condition, they are concerning enough to warrant a medical evaluation. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to gastrointestinal health. Seeking medical attention will provide you with peace of mind and ensure that any necessary treatment can be initiated promptly.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Attention

Recently, I have been facing my master's thesis defense, and with the added stress of commuting, my stomach has been constantly churning, accompanied by bowel sounds. When I go to the bathroom, I only pass a small amount of stool, mostly just gas. Although I have experienced...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, sir. You are likely experiencing typical irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or motility disorder. Dietary adjustments and stress management can help, and if necessary (such as before an exam), medication to reduce motility can improve your condition. Wishing you success in you...

Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello, doctor. For the past six months, I have been experiencing constipation, frequent diarrhea, a feeling of urgency to have a bowel movement without being able to, and bloating (although I have always had issues with constipation). In January and February of this year, these s...

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery
Many of the previous symptoms have improved with medication. Recently, there has been rectal bleeding, and the possible diagnoses range from common hemorrhoids to other serious gastrointestinal diseases. Based on your description, it is more likely that the bleeding is caused by ...

Understanding Bowel Issues: When to Seek Medical Attention

I initially only experienced irregular bowel movements and occasional bloating, which did not significantly affect my daily life. A long time ago, I consulted a doctor who prescribed some medications to promote gastrointestinal motility. Since I am currently preparing for exams, ...

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery
There are many factors that can affect bowel movements, including diet and lifestyle habits. If bowel issues have led to the symptoms you described and are impacting your quality of life, it is advisable to visit a gastroenterologist for further examination and treatment.

Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello, doctor. For the past few months, my stools have often been loose and even unformed. I frequently feel the urge to have a bowel movement in the mornings during the week, but strangely, I don't feel the same urgency on weekends. I've also been passing gas a lot. Co...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
It is likely a case of general intestinal discomfort. Relax and avoid foods that may cause discomfort or are prone to gas production. You may continue to monitor the situation.