Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions

Hello： The shape of the stool has indentations on the surface (with edges appearing square and right-angled), which indicates that the stool is overly dry. <br>It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet, including sufficient vegetables, and to ensure adequate hydration. <br>If

Gastrointestinal discomfort

Hello, Doctor: I am currently 23 years old, have no exercise habits, and my BMI is between 26 and 27.
I often stay up late and have no family history of gastrointestinal issues.
Since childhood, I have been very picky with food, almost not eating any vegetables except for sweet potato leaves, which I consume about every two to three days.
However, I do eat fruit daily.
Due to my diet, which mainly consists of starches and protein sources like eggs, beans, fish, and meat, I have been worried about potential gastrointestinal problems.

I usually have regular bowel movements after breakfast and before dinner, but I still often experience discomfort in my gastrointestinal tract, including bloating and mild cramping, sometimes accompanied by lower back pain (not sure if it's related).
After having a bowel movement, I feel like I have emptied my bowels, but usually, 10 to 20 minutes later, I feel the urge to go again and pass some stool.
Even then, I still often feel bloated, as if there is stool that hasn't been fully evacuated.

Additionally, I spend a long time in the restroom, often taking 10 to 30 minutes to feel somewhat emptied.
I spend a lot of time on bowel movements, but the amount of stool produced is quite large (usually more than the size of two hot dogs).
Recently, I have been closely observing my stool, which has a shape with indentations on the surface (the edges are square and right-angled), is flat and elongated, has some mucus on the surface, and has a foul odor.
Therefore, I am increasingly worried that there may be an issue with my gastrointestinal health.
I hope you can tell me the possible causes or conditions related to these symptoms and whether I need to go to the hospital for some screenings.
Thank you!

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/10/30

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: The shape of the stool has indentations on the surface (with edges appearing square and right-angled), which indicates that the stool is overly dry.
It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet, including sufficient vegetables, and to ensure adequate hydration.
If the condition does not improve, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist to investigate the cause.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2017/10/30

More Info

Understanding gastrointestinal discomfort can be complex, especially when symptoms like constipation, abdominal pain, and diarrhea are involved. Based on your description, several factors may contribute to your gastrointestinal issues, and it’s essential to consider both dietary habits and lifestyle choices.

Possible Causes of Your Symptoms
1. Dietary Habits: Your diet appears to be heavily reliant on starches and proteins, with minimal intake of vegetables. A lack of dietary fiber can lead to constipation and may contribute to feelings of bloating and discomfort. Fiber is crucial for healthy bowel movements, as it adds bulk to the stool and helps it pass more easily through the intestines. The fact that you eat fruits daily is beneficial, but it may not be enough to counterbalance the low fiber intake from vegetables.

2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Your symptoms, including the sensation of incomplete evacuation and the presence of mucus in your stool, could suggest IBS. This functional gastrointestinal disorder is characterized by a combination of abdominal pain and altered bowel habits, which can include constipation, diarrhea, or both. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate IBS symptoms, and lifestyle factors like lack of exercise and irregular sleep patterns may also play a role.

3. Constipation: The description of your bowel movements—long duration in the bathroom, large stool size, and the feeling of incomplete evacuation—indicates that you may be experiencing constipation. This can lead to abdominal pain and discomfort, as well as bloating. The shape of your stool, particularly if it is flat or has ridges, can indicate that it is being held in the colon for too long, leading to dehydration of the stool and difficulty passing it.

4. Gastrointestinal Motility Issues: Your symptoms of cramping and the sensation of bloating may also suggest issues with gastrointestinal motility, where the muscles of the intestines do not contract effectively. This can lead to irregular bowel movements and discomfort.

5. Potential Infections or Inflammatory Conditions: While less likely given your description, it’s important to rule out any infections or inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, especially if you notice any significant changes in your stool characteristics or if you experience weight loss, fever, or blood in your stool.

Recommendations for Management
1. Dietary Changes: Increasing your intake of dietary fiber is crucial. Aim to incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes into your diet. This can help improve bowel regularity and reduce bloating. Gradually increase fiber intake to avoid gas and bloating.

2. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day. Adequate hydration is essential for softening stool and promoting regular bowel movements.

3. Physical Activity: Regular exercise can help stimulate bowel function and reduce symptoms of constipation. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

4. Stress Management: Since stress can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms, consider incorporating stress-reducing practices such as mindfulness, yoga, or meditation into your routine.

5. Medical Evaluation: Given the persistence and nature of your symptoms, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend tests such as blood work, stool tests, or imaging studies to rule out any underlying conditions. A referral to a gastroenterologist may also be beneficial for specialized care.

6. Medication: If dietary and lifestyle changes do not alleviate your symptoms, your doctor may consider prescribing medications to help manage IBS or constipation.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be indicative of functional gastrointestinal disorders, a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. Taking proactive steps in your diet and lifestyle can significantly improve your gastrointestinal health.

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