Gastrointestinal Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Advice

Q: Gastrointestinal Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello： If you have symptoms or questions, it is recommended to undergo an examination. <br>You can consult a gastroenterologist at Changhua Hospital to take care of your health. <br>Dr. <br>Tsai An-shun.

Gastrointestinal discomfort?

Hello Doctor,
1.
Today I noticed that the front part of my stool has mucus, which makes me a bit worried.
I usually have a light diet and eat fruits and vegetables, but occasionally the front part of my stool is too hard and there is some bleeding, although it is not frequent and not much.

2.
I have a dull pain on the left side of my abdomen, just above the navel, and sometimes on the right side as well.
I'm only in my twenties; could this be a concern? I have been eating more fruits and vegetables lately, and while the front part of my stool is formed, the back part is also shaped like a log but disintegrates in water.
I'm worried it might be due to poor dietary habits from my childhood.

3.
About half a month ago, I also experienced diarrhea with a small amount of blood.
The frequency of diarrhea is very low; even when it occurs, it's usually just once a day.
My regular bowel habit is once a day, typically in the morning after I wake up.

4.
I have seen reports online about a trend of gastrointestinal issues becoming more common among young people.
Should young individuals consider getting checked?

Mr. Wang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/16

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: If you have symptoms or questions, it is recommended to undergo an examination.
You can consult a gastroenterologist at Changhua Hospital to take care of your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2016/08/16

More Info

Gastrointestinal discomfort can be a complex issue, and it's important to understand when to seek medical advice. Based on your symptoms and concerns, let's break down the situation and provide some guidance.

1. Mucus in Stool and Hard Stools: The presence of mucus in your stool can be concerning, but it is not uncommon. Mucus is produced by the intestines to help with the passage of stool. However, if you notice blood, even if it's infrequent, it could indicate an underlying issue such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures, especially if your stools are hard. Hard stools can cause straining during bowel movements, leading to these conditions. It's essential to maintain a high-fiber diet, which you mentioned you are trying to do by consuming more fruits and vegetables. Additionally, staying well-hydrated can help soften your stools.

2. Abdominal Pain: The discomfort you feel in the left side of your abdomen, as well as the occasional pain on the right side, could be related to several factors. Given your age, while serious conditions are less likely, they are not impossible. Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which is common in younger adults, could be a possibility. Stress, dietary habits, and lifestyle can all contribute to IBS symptoms. If the pain persists or worsens, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

3. Recent Diarrhea with Blood: Experiencing diarrhea with blood can be alarming. While it may have been a one-time occurrence, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. Blood in the stool can indicate various conditions, from benign issues like hemorrhoids to more serious conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). If this happens again or if you experience other symptoms like fever, significant abdominal pain, or prolonged diarrhea, you should seek medical attention promptly.

4. Young Adults and Screening: There is indeed a trend of gastrointestinal issues appearing in younger populations, and awareness is crucial. While routine screening for conditions like colorectal cancer is typically recommended starting at age 45, younger individuals with concerning symptoms should not hesitate to seek evaluation. If you have a family history of gastrointestinal diseases or if your symptoms are persistent and troubling, discussing the need for further investigation with your healthcare provider is advisable.

In summary, while some of your symptoms may be manageable with dietary changes and lifestyle adjustments, others warrant a more thorough investigation. If you experience persistent abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or any alarming symptoms like blood in your stool, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend tests such as a colonoscopy or other imaging studies to rule out serious conditions and provide appropriate treatment. Remember, early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so don’t hesitate to seek help when needed.

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