Irregular Bowel Movements: Causes and Concerns - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Irregular Bowel Movements: Causes and Concerns

Hello, Ms. <br>Hsieh—regarding your questions： 1. <br>Polyps do not present any symptoms, so it is not possible to diagnose the presence of polyps as you mentioned. <br>2. <br>A weight change from 55 to 52 kilograms over a year is not considered rapid weight loss, although it is

Gastrointestinal issues: The stool has soft ends with occasional indentations, and diarrhea has persisted for nearly six months?

Frequent bowel movements resembling ice cream, with the stool sometimes showing indentations at the end, and occasionally formed but disintegrating upon contact with water—does this qualify as a type of diarrhea? This has been occurring intermittently for six months, but occasionally (though infrequently) I also have harder, longer stools (this situation is relatively rare).
Here are my questions:
1.
If there are polyps in the intestines, is it possible to have both thicker and thinner stools at different times? Can the indentations sometimes be absent and sometimes present?

2.
My weight has been around 57 kg for several years, but in January of this year, I weighed 55 kg, and now in December, it has dropped to 52-53 kg.
Does this count as a rapid weight loss in a short period? (I haven't been on a specific diet.)
3.
I used to have a regular bowel movement once a day, but now I often go two times a day, sometimes even three.
Does this indicate a change in my bowel habits? I don't have the urge to go frequently, but my daily bowel movements have increased from once to at least twice.
4.
I cannot visually detect any blood, but I often see some undigested food in my stool.
Yesterday, I had three bowel movements: the first in the morning was a normal banana-sized stool, about 15 cm, with a relatively firm consistency.
However, I don't know why, around noon, I only passed a small amount of stool along with some white/yellow mucus.
In the afternoon, I passed a bit more yellowish-white mucus along with a thinner stool (which had indentations).
I'm suddenly very worried that there might be an issue with my intestines, as my stool seems to fluctuate between normal, formed, and suddenly abnormal soft or loose stools (usually, only the softer stools show indentations at the end).

Xue, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/12/03

Dr. Yang Zhichao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, Ms.
Hsieh—regarding your questions: 1.
Polyps do not present any symptoms, so it is not possible to diagnose the presence of polyps as you mentioned.
2.
A weight change from 55 to 52 kilograms over a year is not considered rapid weight loss, although it is still a decrease.
3.
Having bowel movements 1-3 times a day is generally normal, but it would be advisable to have a gastroenterologist perform a routine stool examination for further evaluation.
4.
You may be experiencing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, which could explain your bowel habits.
In summary, you may have irritable bowel syndrome, and it is recommended that you consult a gastroenterologist for assessment.

Changhua Hospital cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2019/12/03

More Info

Understanding irregular bowel movements can be quite concerning, especially when there are noticeable changes in stool consistency, frequency, and accompanying symptoms. Based on the information you've provided, let's delve into your questions and concerns regarding your bowel habits.

1. Stool Consistency and Polyps: The presence of irregular stool shapes, such as those resembling ice cream or having indentations, can be indicative of several gastrointestinal issues. While polyps can cause changes in stool consistency, they are not the only factor. Polyps may lead to narrower stools if they obstruct the passage, but other conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), can also cause variations in stool shape and consistency. The intermittent nature of your symptoms—sometimes having normal stools and other times having softer or irregular stools—suggests that your bowel function may be influenced by dietary factors, stress, or other underlying conditions.

2. Weight Loss Concerns: A weight drop from 57 kg to 52-53 kg over the course of a year, especially without intentional dieting, can be classified as significant. Rapid weight loss can be a sign of various health issues, including malabsorption syndromes, hyperthyroidism, or gastrointestinal disorders. It’s essential to monitor any additional symptoms that may accompany this weight loss, such as fatigue, changes in appetite, or gastrointestinal discomfort.

3. Changes in Bowel Habits: An increase in bowel movement frequency from once a day to two or three times a day can indicate a shift in your digestive health. This change may be due to dietary changes, increased fiber intake, or stress. While it is not inherently problematic to have more frequent bowel movements, it is crucial to observe if this is accompanied by diarrhea, urgency, or discomfort. The absence of a feeling of urgency or incomplete evacuation is a positive sign, but the variability in stool consistency should be monitored.

4. Presence of Mucus and Stool Characteristics: The appearance of mucus in your stool, along with variations in consistency, can be a sign of inflammation in the intestines. Mucus can be produced in response to irritation or inflammation, which may occur in conditions like IBS or infections. The fact that you have had normal stools alongside episodes of softer stools with mucus suggests that your gastrointestinal tract may be reacting to certain foods, stress, or other factors.

Recommendations:
- Dietary Assessment: Consider keeping a food diary to track what you eat and how it correlates with your bowel movements. This can help identify any food intolerances or triggers that may be contributing to your symptoms.

- Hydration and Fiber: Ensure you are adequately hydrated and consuming enough dietary fiber, as both are crucial for maintaining regular bowel movements and preventing constipation.

- Medical Evaluation: Given the duration of your symptoms and the changes in your bowel habits, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend tests such as a colonoscopy or imaging studies to rule out any structural abnormalities, including polyps or other gastrointestinal conditions.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on any additional symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, or changes in appetite. If you notice any alarming signs, such as blood in your stool or severe weight loss, seek medical attention promptly.

In conclusion, while some variations in bowel habits can be normal, persistent changes warrant a thorough evaluation to rule out any underlying health issues. Your health is paramount, and addressing these concerns with a healthcare provider will provide you with the best course of action for your gastrointestinal health.

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