Bowel Issues: Causes and Solutions for College Students

Q: Bowel Issues: Causes and Solutions for College Students

Hello： 1. Try to avoid staying up late, as it may affect your physiological functions. 2. The sound of a drum is related to the intestines. 3. Maintain a normal diet and observe if there is any improvement. 4/5/6. Pay attention to whether you are consu

Bowel issues

Hello, Doctor: Since I started college last year, about two to three months in, I began experiencing bloating issues.
My bowel movements remained normal, just like at home.
When I visited the hospital, the doctor mentioned that my gastrointestinal system was relatively weak and prescribed me medication for bloating.
However, I would experience bloating again whenever I didn't take the medication.
By the end of July this year, for some unknown reason, my stools became less frequent and thinner, about 2 centimeters in diameter (my food intake hasn't decreased, and I eat fruit daily).
The shape of my stools became curved (previously, they were straight), and there was some stool that would stick to the anal area, requiring multiple wipes to clean.
Occasionally, my stools would return to their previous size.
In late September, I consulted a doctor who suggested that my gastrointestinal issues might be due to irritable bowel syndrome, and again prescribed medication for bloating.
Recently, I've noticed that I sometimes need to actively squat to have a bowel movement (previously, I would always feel the urge to go every day).
I have to exert some effort, but the stools that come out are short and thin (about 4 to 5 cm long and slightly narrower than before), and the quantity is small (usually two or three pieces).
The consistency is normal, neither too hard nor too soft.

I have several questions for you, Doctor:
1.
Is this related to staying up late since I started college?
2.
After the bloating began, sometimes when I stretch, I feel a sudden pain in my lower right abdomen (lasting less than a second).
When I touch it, I can feel a firm area that seems to have air in it.
Is this my intestine? Why does this happen?
3.
Is the decrease in stool quantity related to not having breakfast? Or is there another issue? (However, since starting college, I have rarely eaten breakfast, while my lunch and dinner remain normal, and my bowel movements were still regular.)
4.
Why has the shape of my stools changed from being larger and straight to being curved and thinner?
5.
After they became thinner, I feel the urge to go to the bathroom, and after passing one piece, I still feel a slight urge, but only a very small amount comes out, which usually sticks to the anal area and doesn't fall into the toilet.
What could be the reason for this?
6.
Since the second paragraph, my stools seem to lack force.
Is this related to not exercising, or could there be another issue? (Before college, my daily exercise was cycling, but since starting college, I haven't exercised, only walking from my dorm to class and to buy lunch and dinner.)

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/11/21

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: 1.
Try to avoid staying up late, as it may affect your physiological functions.
2.
The sound of a drum is related to the intestines.
3.
Maintain a normal diet and observe if there is any improvement.
4/5/6.
Pay attention to whether you are consuming less fiber-rich foods.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2017/11/21

More Info

Understanding bowel issues, especially in college students, can be quite complex due to various factors such as lifestyle changes, stress, and dietary habits. Based on your description, it appears that you are experiencing a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including bloating, changes in stool consistency and shape, and difficulty with bowel movements. Let's address your questions one by one and provide some insights into potential causes and solutions.

1. Relation to Late Nights and University Life: Yes, your late-night study habits and irregular sleep patterns can significantly affect your gastrointestinal health. Stress and sleep deprivation can lead to increased levels of cortisol, which may disrupt normal digestive functions. This can result in symptoms like bloating and irregular bowel movements. It's essential to establish a regular sleep schedule and find effective stress management techniques, such as mindfulness or exercise, to help mitigate these effects.

2. Right Lower Abdominal Pain and Air Sensation: The sudden pain you experience in the right lower abdomen during stretching could be related to gas buildup in the intestines. The sensation of a "bump" or air feeling could indicate trapped gas or possibly an area of the intestine that is more sensitive. If this pain persists or worsens, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation to rule out any underlying conditions.

3. Decreased Stool Volume and Breakfast: Skipping breakfast can contribute to changes in bowel habits. Breakfast helps kickstart your metabolism and can stimulate bowel movements. If you are not eating regularly, it may lead to less stool formation. However, other factors, such as hydration and overall dietary fiber intake, also play crucial roles in stool consistency and volume. Ensure you are consuming enough fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and stay hydrated.

4. Changes in Stool Shape: The change in stool shape from larger and straight to thinner and curved can indicate a few things. It may suggest that the stool is passing through a narrower section of the intestines, which can occur due to various reasons, including dietary changes or potential intestinal motility issues. If this change persists, it is essential to discuss it with a healthcare provider, as it could be indicative of a more significant issue.

5. Feeling of Incomplete Evacuation: The sensation of incomplete evacuation, where you feel like you still need to go after a bowel movement, can be frustrating. This can be due to several factors, including constipation, rectal sensitivity, or even anxiety about bowel movements. The fact that stool is sticking to the anal area may suggest that the stool is not being formed properly or that there is a lack of adequate lubrication. Increasing fiber intake and hydration can help improve stool consistency.

6. Lack of Physical Activity: A decrease in physical activity can indeed contribute to gastrointestinal issues. Regular exercise promotes healthy digestion and can help prevent constipation. Since you mentioned that your activity level has decreased since starting university, consider incorporating some form of physical activity into your routine, even if it's just walking or stretching.

In conclusion, your symptoms may be related to a combination of stress, dietary habits, and lifestyle changes associated with university life. It would be beneficial to maintain a balanced diet rich in fiber, stay hydrated, establish a regular eating schedule, and incorporate physical activity into your daily routine. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is crucial to seek medical advice for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management. A healthcare professional may recommend tests or dietary adjustments tailored to your specific needs.

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