Bowel Issues: IBS, Hemorrhoids, and Bladder Concerns

Bowel movement issues

Hello, doctor! I have irritable bowel syndrome, and for the past 2 to 3 days, I've noticed blood on the toilet paper after having a bowel movement (constipation).
It's not a lot, but my anus has a fissure and it hurts a lot.
I took vitamin B to see if it would help, but today I had soft stools that got stuck halfway at the anal opening.
Because of the wound, I was afraid to push too hard, and it got stuck for a long time.
In the end, I had to exert myself to get it out, but I could only use toilet paper to extract it, and there was no bleeding.
Could this be a sign of colonic inertia? Also, with the recent cold weather, I've been drinking a lot of water and urinating frequently, about 8 to 12 times a day.
I feel like I have the urge to urinate just a few minutes after drinking water, as if the water is being expelled immediately.
Is there a problem with my bladder? Thank you, doctor, for taking the time to respond to my questions.

Linlin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/02/07

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

The simultaneous occurrence of bowel movements and urination, in the absence of any organ-related issues and merely as a functional disorder, fundamentally stems from insufficient strength of the pelvic floor muscles.
This weakness leads to poor contraction of the rectum and bladder.
To strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, the simplest exercise is Kegel exercises.

Reply Date: 2018/02/07

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a combination of gastrointestinal and urinary issues that can be quite distressing. Based on your description, it appears that you may be dealing with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), hemorrhoids, and possibly some bladder concerns. Let’s break down these issues and explore potential causes and solutions.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, including constipation and diarrhea. The exact cause of IBS is not well understood, but it is thought to involve a combination of factors, including gut motility issues, visceral hypersensitivity, and psychological factors such as stress and anxiety.

Your symptoms of constipation, abdominal pain, and the presence of blood on toilet paper suggest that you may also have anal fissures, which can occur due to straining during bowel movements, especially if you are experiencing constipation. The pain associated with these fissures can make it difficult to pass stool, leading to a cycle of straining and further injury.

Hemorrhoids and Anal Fissures
The presence of blood on toilet paper can be alarming, but it is often associated with hemorrhoids or anal fissures rather than a more serious condition. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus that can cause discomfort, itching, and bleeding, especially during bowel movements. Anal fissures are small tears in the lining of the anus, often caused by passing hard stools.

To manage these conditions, consider the following:
1. Dietary Changes: Increase your fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes to help soften your stool and promote regular bowel movements. Staying hydrated is also crucial.

2. Stool Softeners: Over-the-counter stool softeners can help ease the passage of stool and reduce straining.

3. Warm Baths: Soaking in a warm bath can help relieve pain and discomfort associated with anal fissures and hemorrhoids.

4. Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter creams or ointments may provide relief from pain and itching.

5. Avoid Straining: Try to avoid straining during bowel movements, as this can exacerbate fissures and hemorrhoids.

Bladder Concerns
Regarding your urinary symptoms, frequent urination can be caused by several factors, including increased fluid intake, bladder irritation, or even urinary tract infections. If you are drinking a lot of water and still feel the need to urinate frequently, it might be worth consulting a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying issues such as bladder overactivity or infections.

When to Seek Medical Attention
Given your symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional, especially if:
- You experience significant pain or discomfort.

- The bleeding persists or worsens.

- You notice changes in your bowel habits that are concerning.

- You have any signs of infection, such as fever or chills.

Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms suggest a combination of IBS, hemorrhoids, and potential bladder issues. Managing your diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding straining during bowel movements can help alleviate some of your symptoms. However, it is crucial to seek medical advice for a thorough evaluation and tailored treatment plan. Your healthcare provider can help determine the best course of action to address your concerns and improve your quality of life.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Bowel Issues: From Hemorrhoids to IBS Symptoms

Dear Doctor, I had a colonoscopy two years ago due to rectal bleeding, and the doctor said there were no major issues, just some hemorrhoids. After returning home, my bowel movements have mostly been soft stools, diarrhea, unformed, or accompanied by mucus. After using the restr...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
At the age of 27, the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer is not zero, but generally speaking, it is very, very low. Based on your description, it seems more like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is recommended to start with a light diet and maintain a good lifestyle. Sp...

Understanding Urinary Issues: Managing Incontinence and Bowel Problems

I have been experiencing this for several days now. My stools are watery. My stomach feels crampy. Sometimes I have multiple bowel movements in a day, and it seems like I have fecal incontinence. I can't control it, and it just comes out. What should I do?????

Dr. Lin Wenxu reply Urology
Hello, Mr. "Little": Regarding your issue, it may be caused by acute gastroenteritis or colitis. I recommend that you visit a gastroenterology clinic for evaluation and allow your gastrointestinal tract to rest for a few days. Avoid consuming oily or spicy foods and oth...

Understanding IBS and Its Connection to Hemorrhoids: What You Need to Know

Hello, Doctor: I sometimes experience a dull pain in my lower right abdomen. After dinner, I have abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, a feeling of incomplete evacuation, hard or watery stools, and sometimes mucus in my stool. Additionally, I've noticed blood in...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can be diagnosed through colonoscopy. Hemorrhoidal bleeding may fluctuate, so it is recommended to try warm sitz baths. Wishing you good health.

Understanding Bowel Issues: IBS, Hemorrhoids, and Related Symptoms

Hello, doctor. I have previously been diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome and hemorrhoids. For the past four days, I have been experiencing a sensation of urgency to have a bowel movement, which disappears after I use the restroom. About one or two hours later, I feel the urg...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
It is irritable bowel syndrome, which can be treated with medication along with dietary and lifestyle adjustments.