Gastrointestinal Issues: Constipation and Digestive Discomfort

Gastrointestinal bowel issues?

About three or four days ago, I noticed I was a bit constipated because my stools were small, resembling little pellets, and not much was coming out.
I went to the pharmacy and bought an enema, but it hasn't been very effective.
Over the past two to three days, I've felt overall weakness and a lack of appetite (feeling bloated), but my stomach seems to be producing more gastric acid.
After eating, I often feel nauseous and vomit, although it's not a lot.
My stools are sticky, thick, and coffee-colored (but still only small amounts, and they have a very sour smell).
I experience random burping whether I've eaten or not.
Please help me understand what might be going on.
Thank you.

Axiang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/08

Dr. Yang Zhichao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Dear Mr.
Ah Xiang, your description seems to indicate poor gastrointestinal motility accompanied by constipation.
It is recommended to exercise more, consume more fruits and vegetables, and increase your water intake.
If there is no improvement, please visit a family medicine or gastroenterology clinic for a physician's evaluation.
Thank you for your inquiry.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2019/06/08

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a range of gastrointestinal symptoms that can be quite distressing. Based on your description, you are dealing with constipation, a feeling of fullness or bloating, lack of appetite, nausea, and changes in your bowel movements. These symptoms can be indicative of several underlying issues, and it’s important to approach them systematically.

Firstly, constipation can be caused by a variety of factors, including dietary habits, hydration levels, physical activity, and even stress. When stool becomes hard and difficult to pass, it can lead to discomfort and a feeling of incomplete evacuation. The small, pellet-like stools you mentioned could suggest that your body is not processing food effectively, which can be due to insufficient fiber intake or dehydration.
The presence of nausea and vomiting, especially after eating, is concerning. This could indicate that your gastrointestinal tract is not functioning properly, possibly due to a blockage, inflammation, or other underlying conditions. The fact that you are experiencing a feeling of increased gastric acid secretion and bloating suggests that your stomach may be reacting to something it is unable to process effectively.
The foul-smelling, sticky, and dark-colored stools you described could be a sign of malabsorption or an issue with your digestive enzymes. This can occur in conditions such as gastritis, where the stomach lining is inflamed, or in cases of pancreatic insufficiency, where the pancreas does not produce enough enzymes to digest food properly.
Given your symptoms, it is crucial to consider the following steps:
1. Dietary Adjustments: Increasing your fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help improve bowel regularity. Additionally, staying well-hydrated is essential. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day, and consider incorporating foods that promote gut health, such as yogurt or fermented foods.

2. Physical Activity: Regular exercise can help stimulate bowel movements and improve overall digestive health. Even light activities like walking can be beneficial.

3. Medication Review: Since you mentioned using an enema with limited success, it may be worth discussing with your healthcare provider about other options for managing constipation. Over-the-counter laxatives can be effective, but they should be used cautiously and not as a long-term solution.

4. Medical Evaluation: Given the complexity of your symptoms, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. Tests such as blood work, imaging studies, or endoscopy may be necessary to rule out any serious conditions such as bowel obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease, or infections.

5. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, including your diet, bowel movements, and any other changes. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in diagnosing the issue.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be manageable with lifestyle changes, it is essential to seek medical advice to rule out any serious underlying conditions. Gastrointestinal issues can be multifaceted, and a tailored approach is often necessary to address them effectively. Please consider scheduling an appointment with a gastroenterologist for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

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