Changes in Bowel Movements: Causes and Concerns - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Changes in Bowel Movements: Causes and Concerns

Hello： The stool has become thinner, less in quantity, and contains mucus. <br>There is an increase in bowel motility and flatulence. <br>These conditions may be related to diet, lifestyle, medications, or irritable bowel syndrome. <br>It is recommended to ensure adequate sleep,

Bowel issues

Hello doctor, I've recently noticed that my stools have become thinner, sometimes with mucus, and the amount is quite small.
I also experience some constipation and often feel my intestines moving, with an increase in flatulence.
I've been staying up late, going to bed around midnight or 1 AM.
Recently, I've been taking Lanpo 30mg for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Could this be related to the medication, or could it be irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)? I'm quite worried.

Sandy, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/23

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: The stool has become thinner, less in quantity, and contains mucus.
There is an increase in bowel motility and flatulence.
These conditions may be related to diet, lifestyle, medications, or irritable bowel syndrome.
It is recommended to ensure adequate sleep, proper hydration, and fiber intake, engage in moderate exercise, maintain good bowel habits, avoid irritating foods, eat slowly, and keep a positive mood to promote gut health! Wishing you peace and health! Sincerely, Dr.
Ming-Hui Lin, Attending Physician, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2017/08/23

More Info

Changes in bowel movements can be concerning, especially when they deviate from your normal patterns. In your case, the observation of thinner stools, increased mucus, and a sensation of incomplete evacuation can indeed be indicative of various gastrointestinal issues, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other functional gastrointestinal disorders. However, it is essential to consider a broader range of factors that could be contributing to these changes.

Firstly, lifestyle factors such as sleep patterns, diet, and stress levels play a significant role in gastrointestinal health. You mentioned that you have been staying up late, which can disrupt your body's circadian rhythm and potentially affect digestive processes. Lack of sleep can lead to increased stress and anxiety, which are known triggers for IBS. Stress can cause the intestines to become more sensitive and reactive, leading to symptoms such as increased gas, changes in bowel habits, and the sensation of bloating or incomplete evacuation.

The medication you are taking, lanpo (a proton pump inhibitor), is typically used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and can influence gastrointestinal motility. While these medications are effective for reducing stomach acid, they can also lead to changes in gut flora and motility, potentially contributing to symptoms such as constipation or changes in stool consistency. If you suspect that the medication might be affecting your bowel movements, it would be wise to discuss this with your healthcare provider.

The presence of mucus in your stool can be a normal finding, especially if you are experiencing changes in bowel habits. Mucus is produced by the intestines to lubricate the stool and protect the intestinal lining. However, if the mucus is excessive or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as blood in the stool, significant weight loss, or persistent abdominal pain, it would warrant further investigation.

Regarding your concerns about colorectal cancer, it is important to note that while changes in bowel habits can be a symptom, they are typically accompanied by other signs such as blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, or persistent abdominal discomfort. Given that you have not reported these additional symptoms, it is less likely that your current changes are indicative of cancer, especially in the absence of a family history of such diseases.

In summary, the changes you are experiencing could be attributed to a combination of lifestyle factors, stress, and possibly the effects of your medication. It is advisable to maintain a healthy diet rich in fiber, stay hydrated, and manage stress through relaxation techniques or counseling if necessary. If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you develop new symptoms, it would be prudent to consult a gastroenterologist for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend further testing, such as a colonoscopy, to rule out any serious conditions and provide you with peace of mind.

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