Abdominal Pain and Bowel Issues: A Gastrointestinal Perspective

Q: Abdominal Pain and Bowel Issues: A Gastrointestinal Perspective

Hello： It is recommended to have a bowel movement every day and to increase your fluid intake. <br>Anal pain may be a sign of anal fissures, and frequent bowel movements could be due to excessive fecal matter that cannot be fully expelled at once. <br>If the problem persists, it

Bowel issues?

Hello, my question is that every one to two weeks, I experience the following situation: initially, I have mild abdominal pain, followed by passing deep brown, ribbon-shaped stools.
After this, I still feel pain.
The second occurrence (15 minutes or 1 to 2 hours later) involves severe abdominal pain and passing golden-yellow, ribbon-shaped stools, which are somewhat mushy, and I still feel pain afterward.
The third occurrence (also 15 minutes or 1 to 2 hours later) consists of small, crumbly, deep brown stools (sometimes even less, just a little bit).
After this, the fourth or fifth times are similar to the third, and the pain in my anus is unbearable (I usually have 3 to 5 bowel movements a day, and after the third one, it feels like hell).
It feels like fire is burning; I have diarrhea but hardly pass any water, yet every time I have diarrhea, my anus is extremely painful.
This situation of having diarrhea 3 to 5 times a day, if it happens at school, feels unbearable, and it often occurs at school.
I am really troubled.
Why does this happen once every one to two weeks? Why do I pass crumbly, deep brown stools only after the golden-yellow ones? And why is my anus in so much pain? Thank you for taking the time to answer, and I apologize for the inconvenience (please excuse any typos).

Mou Mou Ren, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/29

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: It is recommended to have a bowel movement every day and to increase your fluid intake.
Anal pain may be a sign of anal fissures, and frequent bowel movements could be due to excessive fecal matter that cannot be fully expelled at once.
If the problem persists, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-Shun.

Reply Date: 2017/04/29

More Info

Understanding abdominal pain and bowel issues can be quite complex, especially when symptoms vary in intensity and frequency. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a pattern of abdominal pain accompanied by changes in bowel movements, which can be indicative of several gastrointestinal issues.

Firstly, the presence of abdominal pain before and after bowel movements suggests that there may be some underlying gastrointestinal disturbance. The fact that you experience this pain in a cyclical manner (once every one to two weeks) could point towards a functional gastrointestinal disorder, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is characterized by recurrent abdominal pain associated with changes in bowel habits, which can include diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between both. The pain you describe, particularly the severe pain after bowel movements, could be related to increased intestinal motility or spasms.

The color and consistency of your stools also provide important clues. The deep brown color of your stools is generally normal, indicating that your diet is likely providing sufficient fiber and that your digestive system is functioning adequately. However, the presence of "golden" and "mushy" stools could indicate a change in your diet or digestive process, possibly related to the types of food you consume before these episodes. Foods high in fat or sugar can sometimes lead to looser stools, while dehydration can also affect stool consistency.

The pain you experience in your anus after bowel movements could be due to several factors. One possibility is anal fissures, which are small tears in the lining of the anus that can occur due to passing hard or large stools. These can cause significant pain, especially during and after bowel movements. Another possibility is hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in the lower rectum that can become painful, particularly if there is straining during bowel movements.

Given that you experience these symptoms frequently at school, it may also be worth considering the role of stress and anxiety. Stress can significantly impact gastrointestinal function, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. If you find that your symptoms worsen during stressful situations, such as being at school, this could be a contributing factor.

In terms of management, it is essential to maintain a balanced diet rich in fiber, stay hydrated, and consider regular physical activity, as these can help regulate bowel movements and reduce symptoms. Additionally, keeping a food diary may help identify any specific triggers related to your diet that could be contributing to your symptoms.

However, given the complexity and persistence of your symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend tests such as stool analysis, blood tests, or imaging studies to rule out any underlying conditions. A gastroenterologist could provide specialized insight into your symptoms and help develop a tailored treatment plan.

In summary, while your symptoms may suggest a functional gastrointestinal disorder, it is essential to seek medical advice for a comprehensive assessment. Understanding the interplay between diet, stress, and gastrointestinal health is vital in managing your symptoms effectively.

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