Bowel Habits: Is Your Stool Normal or a Cause for Concern?

Bowel movement issues

Bowel movements occur once a day or every other day, with no abdominal pain or discomfort during the process, and no abnormalities noted.
There is no blood or blood-tinged stool; however, during the bowel movement, the individual uses their phone, which takes about 10 minutes.
After finishing, there is a slight discoloration around the stool at the bottom of the toilet, which appears to be a deep brown color, while the stool itself is a normal brown color.
There is no blood on the toilet paper.
This situation is quite common, and I am unsure if this constitutes blood in the stool or if it indicates any other symptoms.
Thank you for your response.

Juan Mao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/09/24

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, are you experiencing blood in your stool? It is recommended to collect a sample for a fecal occult blood test.
Please visit a medical facility to arrange for this at Changhua Hospital.
We care about your health.

Reply Date: 2017/09/24

More Info

When it comes to understanding bowel habits and determining whether your stool is normal or a cause for concern, there are several factors to consider. Based on your description, it seems that your bowel movements occur regularly, either once a day or every two days, without any accompanying pain or discomfort. The absence of blood in the stool and the normal brown color of your stool are positive indicators of healthy bowel function.

The fact that you spend about 10 minutes on your phone during bowel movements is not uncommon; many people engage in activities like reading or scrolling through their devices while in the bathroom. However, it’s essential to ensure that this habit does not lead to prolonged sitting, which can sometimes cause discomfort or issues like hemorrhoids over time.

Regarding the "faded" color you observe around the stool in the toilet bowl, this is typically not a cause for concern. The water in the toilet can sometimes create a visual effect that makes the stool appear to have a different color or to be "fading." As long as the stool itself is a normal brown color and you do not see any blood or experience any pain, this is generally considered normal.

To further clarify, blood in the stool can manifest in different ways. Bright red blood usually indicates bleeding from the lower gastrointestinal tract, such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures, while dark red or black stools can suggest bleeding from higher up in the digestive tract. Since you mentioned that your stool is a normal brown color and there is no blood on the toilet paper, it is unlikely that you are experiencing any bleeding.

It's also important to maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated, as these factors significantly influence bowel health. A diet rich in fiber, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can help ensure regular bowel movements and prevent constipation. Drinking plenty of water is equally important, as it aids in digestion and helps keep the stool soft.

If you ever notice changes in your bowel habits, such as a significant alteration in the frequency of your bowel movements, changes in stool consistency, or the presence of blood, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide a thorough evaluation and determine if any further investigation is necessary.

In summary, based on your description, your bowel habits appear to be normal, and the observations you made regarding the stool's appearance do not indicate a cause for concern. However, maintaining awareness of your body and any changes is crucial for overall health. If you have any lingering doubts or experience new symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for personalized advice and reassurance.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello Doctor, I usually have regular bowel movements at least twice a day, but I have noticed an increase in the frequency of my urges to have a bowel movement over the past couple of days. The shape of my stool is about the same, and there is no specific consistency, nor is ther...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Low oil and low dairy, eat at regular intervals and in appropriate portions, and observe the results.

Understanding Flat Stool: When to Worry About Your Bowel Movements

Hello doctor, I am #179031. Since I asked my question that day and observed until today, I have noticed that my stools are still flat, with both large and small shapes. The color seems quite normal, but I am unsure if my increased frequency of bowel movements is a cause for conce...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
It should be fine.

Understanding Frequent Bowel Movements: Causes and Concerns

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if having a bowel movement about 4-6 times a day, mostly after each meal, has become a routine. However, the stool is normal and there is no issue with diarrhea. What could be the possible problem? Thank you.

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: An increased frequency of bowel movements, particularly after meals, is commonly associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which is a functional gastrointestinal disorder. Factors such as stress, anxiety, or dietary habits (consuming greasy, spicy, or caffeinated foo...

Understanding Bowel Issues: Causes and Solutions for Gastrointestinal Health

Hello, doctor. Previously, I had a bout of gastroenteritis and did not see a doctor. I ate porridge for three days and gradually returned to normal meals, but my stools are sometimes ribbon-like and more often loose. On days when my routine is poor, I experience diarrhea, which c...

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery
Changes in bowel habits, gut microbiota, and defecation patterns are common after gastroenteritis. Since it is known that "poor lifestyle habits" can lead to diarrhea and other issues, it is essential to modify these habits to normalize gut function, which is the fundam...