Changes in Bowel Habits: Symptoms and Concerns

Q: Changes in Bowel Habits: Symptoms and Concerns

Hello, please help me reply as follows： <br>The presence of blood in the stool, along with changes in gastrointestinal function and bowel habits, as well as alterations in stool characteristics, are all abnormal symptoms. <br>Possible diagnoses range from hemorrhoids to other ser

Changes in bowel habits and narrowing of stools?

Hello, Doctor Hsu:
In the past two weeks, I have noticed a change in my bowel habits; my stools have become very thin (similar to the size of a pencil or resembling sheep droppings), and I have also experienced episodes of diarrhea.
I have a tendency towards constipation, typically having a bowel movement every two days, but during these two weeks, I have frequently encountered diarrhea and thin stools (occurring alternately).
Additionally, I have been passing gas more often, although I do not experience bloating.

Since October, I have lost 7 kilograms over the past two months.
I am unsure if this is related to my bowel issues, but I have been trying to lose weight as well, exercising four days a week.
Therefore, I am uncertain whether this weight loss is due to exercise or if it indicates an underlying health issue.

Moreover, my menstrual cycle has been irregular this month; it lasted for over two weeks, with the first week being brownish and the second week being red (normal).
I am concerned whether these symptoms are indicative of a health problem or if they are due to other factors.
I am particularly worried about the possibility of colorectal cancer and would appreciate your guidance on what to do next.
Thank you!
P.S.
My appetite is normal, and I find myself getting hungry easily.
I am currently a college student living away from home, so I eat out for all my meals.

Miss Zhang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/12/05

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery

Hello, please help me reply as follows:
The presence of blood in the stool, along with changes in gastrointestinal function and bowel habits, as well as alterations in stool characteristics, are all abnormal symptoms.
Possible diagnoses range from hemorrhoids to other serious gastrointestinal diseases, and their severity should not be underestimated.
Although, based on your description, weight loss may have other potential causes, it is essential to rule out whether it is due to a gastrointestinal condition.
I recommend visiting a hospital's gastroenterology or surgical outpatient department for further examination and treatment.

Reply Date: 2016/12/05

More Info

Changes in bowel habits can be concerning, especially when accompanied by other symptoms such as weight loss, changes in menstrual cycles, and variations in stool consistency. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a combination of diarrhea and narrow stools, which can be indicative of several underlying issues.
Firstly, it's important to understand that changes in bowel habits can be influenced by various factors, including diet, stress, and underlying medical conditions. Given that you mentioned a history of constipation and that your stool has recently become thinner, this could suggest a few possibilities. Narrow stools, often described as "pencil-thin," can sometimes be associated with conditions affecting the colon, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or even more serious conditions like colorectal cancer. However, the presence of diarrhea and the alternating nature of your symptoms may lean more towards functional gastrointestinal disorders, such as IBS, especially if you have a history of anxiety or stress, which can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms.

Your recent weight loss of 7 kilograms over two months is significant, especially if it is unintentional. While weight loss can occur due to increased physical activity, it is essential to consider other factors, particularly if your appetite remains normal and you feel hungrier. This could indicate that your body is not absorbing nutrients effectively, which might be due to gastrointestinal issues.
Additionally, the irregularities in your menstrual cycle could be related to stress, significant weight changes, or hormonal imbalances. Stress and anxiety can impact menstrual cycles, leading to irregular periods.
Given these symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. A gastroenterologist can perform necessary tests, such as a colonoscopy, to rule out any serious conditions. They may also recommend dietary changes, stress management techniques, and possibly medications to help manage your symptoms.
In the meantime, consider keeping a food diary to track what you eat and how it correlates with your bowel habits. This can provide valuable information for your healthcare provider. Additionally, try to maintain a balanced diet rich in fiber, stay hydrated, and manage stress through relaxation techniques or counseling, as these can significantly impact gastrointestinal health.

In summary, while your symptoms could be related to benign conditions like IBS, the combination of weight loss, changes in bowel habits, and menstrual irregularities warrants a professional evaluation to rule out any serious underlying conditions. Please prioritize seeking medical advice to address your concerns comprehensively.

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