Changes in Stool Size: When to Seek Medical Advice - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Stool becomes thin?

Hello doctor, recently my stools have started to become thinner (within the past week).
During the winter break, my stools were normal in width, about 2-3 centimeters, and there was no blood.
However, since school started, I have occasionally noticed blood when wiping, and the stools have been thinner.
Initially, they are usually thicker at one end and thinner at the other, but there have been a few instances where the entire stool was thin (about 1 to 2 centimeters).
Upon careful observation, I don't feel any other discomfort.
I have checked for other symptoms of colorectal cancer and haven't noticed any, and my daily life hasn't been significantly affected.
I have internal hemorrhoids and am currently on my menstrual period.
I initially thought this was normal before menstruation, but the thin stools persisted for a day or two after my period ended.
I'm worried it might actually be colorectal cancer but mistook it for pressure from the hemorrhoids or menstruation.
Today, I ate a lunch box and drank a few hundred cc of water, and less than an hour later, I had a bowel movement.
The stool was a normal light brown color, very thin, and then it broke apart.
The blood was pink, likely menstrual blood.
Typically, I have a bowel movement about once a day, but recently it's been about once or twice.

Renli, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/03/02

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

If it is a tumor, it would not develop within a week.
It is recommended to consult a colorectal surgeon.

Reply Date: 2018/03/02

More Info

When it comes to changes in stool size, particularly when you notice that your stools have become thinner, it is important to pay attention to the accompanying symptoms and the duration of these changes. In your case, you mentioned that your stools have been consistently thinner (around 1 to 2 centimeters) for about a week, and you have also experienced some rectal bleeding, which you believe may be related to internal hemorrhoids. However, you are understandably concerned about the possibility of colorectal cancer.

Firstly, it is essential to understand that changes in stool size can be influenced by various factors, including diet, hydration, and underlying medical conditions. Thinner stools can sometimes indicate a narrowing of the intestinal passage, which may be caused by conditions such as strictures, inflammation, or even tumors. The presence of blood in the stool, even if it appears to be pink and possibly related to menstrual bleeding, should not be overlooked.

Given your symptoms, here are some key points to consider:
1. Duration and Consistency: If the change in stool size persists beyond a few days, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A sudden change in bowel habits, especially if accompanied by bleeding, warrants further investigation.

2. Accompanying Symptoms: While you mentioned that you do not have other significant symptoms, it is crucial to monitor for any additional signs such as abdominal pain, weight loss, changes in appetite, or persistent fatigue. These could indicate a more serious underlying condition.

3. Hemorrhoids: Internal hemorrhoids can cause bleeding and may also affect stool consistency. However, if the bleeding continues or worsens, or if you notice other changes, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider.

4. Colorectal Cancer Screening: Given your concerns about colorectal cancer, it is important to discuss your symptoms with a healthcare professional. They may recommend a colonoscopy or other diagnostic tests to rule out any serious conditions. Early detection is key in managing colorectal cancer effectively.

5. Diet and Hydration: Ensure that you are consuming a balanced diet rich in fiber, which can help regulate bowel movements and improve stool consistency. Staying well-hydrated is also important for digestive health.

6. Menstrual Cycle Considerations: Hormonal changes during your menstrual cycle can affect bowel habits, but if you notice that the changes persist beyond your cycle, it is best to seek medical advice.

In conclusion, while some changes in stool size can be benign, the combination of thinner stools and rectal bleeding should prompt a visit to your healthcare provider. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly imaging or endoscopic procedures, to determine the cause of your symptoms. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to changes in your health.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Changes in Stool Size: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello Doctor: My bowel movement frequency has always been quite good, typically once a day or at least every two days. Since June of this year, I have been focusing on weight loss and health maintenance. In addition to drinking over 2000cc of water daily, I have been controlling ...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, there may be recent occurrences of gastroenteritis. It is recommended to consume less oil, less dairy, and fewer raw or cold foods. If your stool returns to a normal consistency, there is no need to worry. Polyps generally do not grow large enough to cause a change in stoo...

Understanding Changes in Stool: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello, doctor: About three days ago, I had an upset stomach, and my stool was loose. By the previous day, my stool had returned to a normal banana shape. However, after breakfast today, I felt a bit uncomfortable in my stomach, and when I had a bowel movement, I noticed that my s...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
The warning sign of thinner stools is indicative of rectal cancer causing intestinal obstruction, which is already a late-stage symptom. In younger individuals, this phenomenon is mostly caused by swollen hemorrhoids. If diarrhea improves and normal stool consistency returns, the...

Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: When to Seek Further Evaluation

Hello Doctor, I am 178 cm tall and weigh 68 kg. My bowel movements used to be normal and well-formed (once a day consistently), but for the past month, I have suddenly been experiencing soft stools with a decreased volume, and the stools are also narrower. I don't have much ...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
The likelihood of developing colorectal cancer at the age of 28, while not zero, is generally very low. Based on your description, it seems more indicative of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is recommended to start with a light diet and maintain a good lifestyle routine. Spicy...

Understanding Changes in Stool Size: When to Worry About Colon Health

Hello, doctor. I had a colonoscopy three months ago, and it only revealed internal hemorrhoids. Today, my first bowel movement was of normal size, but during my second bowel movement at night, the stool suddenly became smaller, about the size of a pencil, and there was very littl...

Dr. Cai Jinji reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Mr. Chen: If you had a colonoscopy three months ago, the likelihood of having a tumor in the colon should be relatively low. It is advisable to return to your original physician for confirmation. Was there an adequate bowel preparation prior to the colonoscopy? It would be ...