Changes in Bowel Habits: When to Seek Medical Attention

Change in bowel habits

I am 20 years old, and my bowel movements used to be quite normal and smooth, as I would eat a lot and have a large stool volume.
However, in the past few weeks, I have been experiencing some constipation, sometimes going 2 to 3 days without a bowel movement.
In the last two weeks, I have also had some diarrhea, with small, segmented stools, and the size of my stool is about a quarter of what it used to be.
I exercise regularly and maintain a clean diet due to my fitness habits, only occasionally eating hot pot.
Could this possibly indicate a tumor in the colon or rectum? Since I am studying abroad and won't be able to return home for a month to arrange for an examination, should I schedule a colonoscopy immediately?

Hong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/04/25

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

At the age of 20, the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer can be considered negligible.
Based on your description, it does not seem to indicate any issues.
I recommend starting with a light diet and maintaining a good lifestyle routine.
It is advisable to avoid spicy, irritating, and greasy foods, and increasing your intake of dietary fiber can also be beneficial.
If symptoms persist without improvement, you may want to consult a physician for medication or consider undergoing a colonoscopy.

Reply Date: 2019/04/25

More Info

Understanding changes in bowel habits is crucial for identifying potential health issues, especially when symptoms like constipation and diarrhea arise. In your case, experiencing a shift from regular bowel movements to constipation, followed by diarrhea and changes in stool consistency, can be concerning. While it’s understandable to worry about serious conditions such as colorectal tumors, it’s important to consider a range of possible explanations for your symptoms.

Firstly, changes in bowel habits can often be attributed to dietary changes, stress, or even dehydration. Since you mentioned maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise, it’s worth considering if there have been any recent changes in your diet or lifestyle that could contribute to your symptoms. For example, increased consumption of certain foods, changes in fiber intake, or even stress related to studying abroad could impact your gastrointestinal function.

Constipation, characterized by infrequent bowel movements and difficulty passing stools, can lead to a buildup of stool in the colon, which may eventually result in diarrhea as the body attempts to expel the accumulated waste. The fact that you are experiencing a significant change in the size and consistency of your stool (notably thinner stools) can be a symptom of various conditions, ranging from benign to more serious issues.

While it is natural to be concerned about the possibility of a tumor, especially given the changes in your bowel habits, it’s essential to remember that many other factors can cause similar symptoms. Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or even infections can lead to changes in bowel habits without the presence of a tumor.
Regarding your question about whether to seek immediate medical attention or arrange for a colonoscopy, it’s advisable to consider a few factors. If you experience any alarming symptoms such as significant abdominal pain, blood in your stool, unexplained weight loss, or persistent changes in bowel habits lasting more than a few weeks, it would be prudent to seek medical evaluation sooner rather than later. These symptoms can be indicative of more serious conditions that warrant prompt investigation.

In the absence of these alarming symptoms, and considering that you are currently abroad, it may be reasonable to monitor your symptoms for a short period. Keeping a record of your bowel habits, dietary intake, and any associated symptoms can provide valuable information for your healthcare provider when you are able to return home for a thorough evaluation.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you develop any new symptoms, it would be wise to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A healthcare professional can perform a comprehensive assessment, which may include a physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging studies, to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.

In summary, while changes in bowel habits can be concerning, they are often related to benign factors. However, it is essential to remain vigilant and seek medical advice if you experience any alarming symptoms or if your condition does not improve. Your health is paramount, and timely intervention can lead to better outcomes.

Similar Q&A

Sudden Changes in Bowel Habits: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello Doctor: I used to have regular bowel movements, at least once a day, but for about a week now, I have hardly had any bowel movements. I have been drinking water and eating fruits, but I just don't feel the urge to have a bowel movement at all. Recently, I have also sud...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
It is common for bowel movements to decrease when food intake is reduced. Prolonged reduction in food intake can lead to the body adapting, resulting in a lack of hunger. However, maintaining a normal diet and regular routine is essential for sustaining health. Seeking medical at...

Changes in Bowel Habits: When to Seek Medical Attention

I have always had a good bowel habit; after eating, I usually feel the urge to go to the bathroom without any abdominal pain, and it typically takes less than two minutes to finish. However, during a trip abroad from late last year to January, my eating habits were not great. I h...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
In this situation, you should see a doctor and avoid self-medicating with over-the-counter medications. A colonoscopy may not be necessary, but it is important to have a physician evaluate and make a determination.

Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello Doctor: I have had gastrointestinal issues since childhood, often experiencing abdominal pain. I usually have a bowel movement after breakfast every day. However, about a year ago, my bowel habits changed from after breakfast to after lunch. In the past four months, my bowe...

Dr. Yu Mingchang reply Surgery
Please return to the colorectal clinic.

Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello Doctor: My usual bowel movement frequency is once a day, but for the past two weeks, I've experienced an increase to twice a day on about half of those days. Additionally, it seems that my flatulence frequency has also increased. However, the shape of my stool has not ...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
It is likely influenced by diet and lifestyle, and further observation is recommended.