Bowel Issues: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation

Bowel issues

Hello, I have usually had banana-shaped stools, but last week, for 3-4 consecutive days, my stools became thin and long, I felt incomplete evacuation, the color was brown, there was no mucus, no abdominal pain, and no blood in the stool.
After seeing a doctor, I was diagnosed with indigestion and external hemorrhoids.
I have completed a 3-day course of medication and am waiting for the stool occult blood report.
In addition to taking medication, I have also actively adjusted my diet to focus on light meals, increasing my intake of fruits and vegetables, and staying hydrated.
It has been over a week now, but my bowel movements do not seem to have significantly returned to normal.
Yesterday, my stool was bulkier and coarser, but this morning it became somewhat hard again.
Therefore, I would like to ask how long the symptoms of indigestion typically last? Would you recommend further evaluation with a colonoscopy? Thank you for your response!

Hei Gou Xiong, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/11/21

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, sir.
Indigestion, also known as motility disorder, is a benign symptom.
You can manage it by paying attention to your diet and making short- and long-term adjustments to your medication.
A colonoscopy is not necessary at this time unless there is a positive fecal occult blood test.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shidian

Reply Date: 2016/11/21

More Info

When it comes to bowel issues, understanding the symptoms and when to seek further medical evaluation is crucial for maintaining gastrointestinal health. Based on your description, it seems you've been experiencing changes in your bowel habits, specifically a shift from your usual banana-shaped stools to thinner, elongated stools that feel incomplete. This can understandably be concerning, especially when accompanied by digestive issues and the presence of external hemorrhoids.

From a medical standpoint, changes in stool shape and consistency can be indicative of various gastrointestinal conditions. The fact that your stools have become thinner could suggest a potential narrowing of the bowel, which may be due to several factors, including inflammation, strictures, or even the presence of a mass. However, it is also important to consider benign causes such as dietary changes or temporary digestive disturbances.

You mentioned that you have been diagnosed with dyspepsia (indigestion) and have been treated for it. Dyspepsia can lead to various gastrointestinal symptoms, including changes in bowel habits, but typically, it should not cause significant alterations in stool shape. The fact that you have been actively adjusting your diet to include more fruits and vegetables, along with increased hydration, is a positive step towards improving your digestive health.

In terms of the duration of dyspeptic symptoms, it can vary widely among individuals. Some may experience relief within a few days of dietary adjustments and medication, while others may find that symptoms persist for weeks or even longer. If your symptoms do not improve significantly after a reasonable period, or if you experience new symptoms such as abdominal pain, significant weight loss, or blood in your stool, it would be prudent to seek further evaluation.

Regarding the possibility of undergoing a colonoscopy, this is often recommended when there are concerning symptoms that do not resolve with conservative management. Given that you have experienced a notable change in your bowel habits and have a history of digestive issues, a colonoscopy could be a valuable diagnostic tool. It allows for direct visualization of the colon and rectum, and it can help identify any structural abnormalities, inflammation, or lesions that may require intervention.

In summary, while dietary changes and medications can often resolve dyspeptic symptoms, persistent changes in bowel habits warrant further investigation. A colonoscopy may be a reasonable next step, especially if your symptoms continue or worsen. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, who can guide you on the appropriate timing for further evaluation based on your clinical presentation and response to treatment. Remember, early detection and intervention are key to managing gastrointestinal health effectively.

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