Post-Gastroenteritis: Ongoing Abnormal Bowel Movements and Concerns

Q: Post-Gastroenteritis: Ongoing Abnormal Bowel Movements and Concerns

Hello： After acute gastroenteritis, there is a brief period for intestinal repair, and there is no need to rush into an endoscopy during this time. <br>Instead, it is more important to pay attention to the types of food consumed. <br>If there is no improvement after one month, th

More than a month after gastroenteritis, bowel movements have still not returned to normal?

I had gastroenteritis at the end of March, and after taking medication, although I no longer have vomiting or diarrhea, my bowel movements have not returned to normal.
When I wipe, there is a large amount of yellow-brown liquid on the toilet paper, and I am unsure if it is stool or mucus.
I have to wipe three or four times and still cannot get it clean.
Most of the time, it is a mud-like yellow-brown consistency, and when it is better, it consists of some dark brown pieces mixed with a small, long, thin strip of yellow-brown.
Each time I feel the urge to go, I experience abdominal pain; it is not the same as diarrhea pain, but rather a strong urgency.
Additionally, I always pass several long, foul-smelling gas.
I found many articles online suggesting that this could be a sign of colon cancer, where a tumor obstructs the stool, causing it to become thin and elongated.
This makes me very anxious, especially since my grandfather had rectal cancer and my grandmother had lung cancer, while my parents are currently healthy.
I am unsure if this puts me in a high-risk group.
Yesterday, I visited the hospital, and the doctor only prescribed a week’s worth of probiotics and anti-diarrheal medication.
Should I proactively request a tumor screening during my next follow-up? Thank you very much for taking the time to address my concerns.

Zhou, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/09

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: After acute gastroenteritis, there is a brief period for intestinal repair, and there is no need to rush into an endoscopy during this time.
Instead, it is more important to pay attention to the types of food consumed.
If there is no improvement after one month, then considering an endoscopy would not be too late.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2017/05/09

More Info

Post-gastroenteritis symptoms can be quite distressing, especially when they persist beyond the acute phase of the illness. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing ongoing abnormal bowel movements characterized by a mix of yellow-brown liquid and mud-like stools, accompanied by abdominal pain and gas. While it's understandable to be concerned about the possibility of serious conditions like colorectal cancer, it's important to approach this situation with a balanced perspective.

Firstly, after an episode of gastroenteritis, it is not uncommon for bowel habits to remain irregular for some time. The gastrointestinal tract can take a while to fully recover, and during this period, you may experience changes in stool consistency, frequency, and urgency. The presence of mucus in your stool and the urgency you feel can be indicative of a few things, including post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can occur after gastrointestinal infections. IBS is characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits, and it can manifest as diarrhea, constipation, or a mix of both.

The fact that you are experiencing foul-smelling gas and a sense of urgency without the presence of diarrhea suggests that your bowel may still be sensitive and reactive following the infection. This could be due to lingering inflammation or changes in gut flora that often occur after an infection. It’s also worth noting that stress and anxiety about your symptoms can exacerbate gastrointestinal issues, leading to a cycle of discomfort.

Regarding your family history, having relatives with colorectal cancer does place you at a higher risk, but it does not mean that you will develop the disease. The symptoms you describe, while concerning, are not definitive indicators of cancer. Colorectal cancer often presents with a combination of symptoms, including changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, and persistent abdominal discomfort. The fact that you have not experienced blood in your stool is a reassuring sign, but it is still wise to remain vigilant.

Since you have already consulted a physician and received treatment with probiotics and anti-diarrheal medications, it is advisable to follow their recommendations for a follow-up. If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you develop new symptoms such as weight loss, significant changes in appetite, or blood in your stool, you should definitely advocate for further evaluation. This may include imaging studies or a colonoscopy, especially given your family history.

In the meantime, consider adopting a diet that is gentle on your digestive system. Focus on low-fiber, easily digestible foods, and gradually reintroduce fiber as tolerated. Staying hydrated is also crucial, as diarrhea can lead to dehydration. Additionally, managing stress through relaxation techniques or counseling may help alleviate some of the gastrointestinal symptoms.

In summary, while your symptoms warrant attention, they are not necessarily indicative of a serious condition like colorectal cancer. Continue to monitor your symptoms, maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, and do not hesitate to seek further evaluation if needed. Your health is paramount, and being proactive about your concerns is a crucial part of managing your well-being.

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