Loss of Appetite and Blood in Stool: Gastrointestinal Concerns Explained

Loss of appetite and blood in the stool?

Hello, doctor.
Previously, I experienced a muscle soreness in my abdomen, and whenever I tried to straighten up, it felt very painful.
Recently, my appetite has been very low; even when I do feel hungry, I only want to eat vegetables and have no desire for meat.
My stomach feels bloated, and the gas I pass is quite foul-smelling.
Sometimes I feel the urge to have a bowel movement, but when I go to the bathroom, I can't produce much, or I only pass a small amount.
Occasionally, when I squat on the toilet, I pass gas and notice that the toilet paper is covered in blood (I do not have internal or external hemorrhoids).
Almost every time I pass gas, I end up wiping away blood.

A-Hsien, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/20

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, sir.
Please visit Changhua Hospital for a health check-up.
Best regards, Chen Shidian.

Reply Date: 2016/10/20

More Info

The symptoms you are experiencing, including loss of appetite, abdominal discomfort, and blood in your stool, are concerning and warrant immediate medical attention. The combination of these symptoms can indicate several gastrointestinal issues, ranging from benign to more serious conditions.

Firstly, the presence of blood in your stool, especially if it is bright red, can suggest bleeding in the lower gastrointestinal tract. This could be due to conditions such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or more serious issues like diverticulosis or colorectal cancer. Given that you mentioned you do not have hemorrhoids, the blood could be coming from an anal fissure, which is a small tear in the lining of the anus that can occur due to straining during bowel movements, especially if you are experiencing constipation or hard stools.

The fact that you are experiencing a significant loss of appetite and a change in your bowel habits—such as infrequent stools or only passing small amounts—could indicate an underlying gastrointestinal disorder. Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or even infections can lead to these symptoms. IBS, for instance, can cause a mix of diarrhea and constipation, along with abdominal pain and bloating, which seems to align with your experiences.

Your description of foul-smelling gas and bloating could also point to malabsorption issues or dietary intolerances. If your diet is high in certain carbohydrates or sugars that your body struggles to digest, this could lead to excessive gas production and discomfort. Additionally, if you have a history of gastrointestinal issues, such as ulcers, it is essential to consider that these could be flaring up again.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical evaluation. A healthcare provider may recommend several diagnostic tests, including a complete blood count (CBC) to check for anemia, stool tests to check for occult blood, and possibly imaging studies or endoscopy to visualize the gastrointestinal tract. A colonoscopy may be particularly important to rule out any serious conditions, especially if you are over the age of 50 or have a family history of colorectal cancer.

In the meantime, consider keeping a food diary to track what you eat and any symptoms that arise. This can help identify any potential food triggers that may be contributing to your gastrointestinal distress. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet rich in fiber can also help regulate your bowel movements.

In summary, your symptoms of loss of appetite, abdominal discomfort, and blood in the stool are significant and should not be ignored. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide a thorough evaluation and appropriate management based on your specific condition. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes, especially if there is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

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