Bowel Issues: Insights from Gastroenterology Experts

Bowel movement issues

Hello, doctor.
In the past few months, my bowel movements have sometimes been well-formed and other times loose.
I considered that it might be related to dietary fiber, and I've been eating high-fiber vegetables and fruits, but there hasn't been any improvement.
My food intake hasn't changed significantly, but I've noticed a weight loss of about 0.5 kg every 1-2 weeks.
I used to exercise regularly, but my physical activity has decreased in the past two months due to the pandemic.
After bowel movements, I visually check and see that there is no blood, nor do I have black stools.
Occasionally, I experience pain in the lower left abdomen, but it goes away after passing gas or having a bowel movement (if I don't pass gas or have a bowel movement, the pain subsides after a few seconds).
Today at noon, after lunch, I noticed a slight pain in the upper left abdomen when taking a deep breath, but it didn't last long and resolved quickly.
I know my gastrointestinal health isn't great, so I rarely eat out, but these symptoms were more frequent about a month ago.
This month, they have been less frequent due to the pandemic.
I'm currently hesitant to go to the hospital for more detailed examinations, but I wanted to ask about this here first.

VIC, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/17

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello,
A 25-year-old male is experiencing bowel issues, with stool consistency varying between well-formed and loose.
There is left lower abdominal pain that improves after bowel movements, which may indicate a sensitive gastrointestinal tract, irritable bowel syndrome, or gastrointestinal dysfunction.
The shape of the stool is related to diet.
It is recommended to increase fiber intake, engage in moderate exercise, and ensure adequate hydration.
Establishing regular bowel habits is advised.

Additionally, there is left upper abdominal pain after lunch that improves afterward.
It is suggested to pay attention to eating habits, avoid eating too quickly, refrain from consuming irritating foods, and eat until about 80% full to see if symptoms improve.
If there is slight weight loss, further observation is warranted.

Wishing you peace and health!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Ming-Hui Lin
Attending Physician, Gastroenterology
Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2020/04/17

More Info

Understanding bowel issues can be quite complex, as they often involve a range of symptoms and underlying conditions. Based on the information provided, it seems you are experiencing a variety of gastrointestinal symptoms, including irregular bowel movements, abdominal pain, and changes in stool consistency. Let's break down these concerns and explore potential insights from gastroenterology.

Firstly, the inconsistency in your bowel movements—sometimes well-formed and other times loose—can be indicative of several factors, including dietary habits, stress levels, and underlying gastrointestinal conditions. You mentioned increasing your intake of fiber-rich foods, which is generally beneficial for bowel health. However, it's important to ensure that this increase in fiber is gradual, as a sudden spike can sometimes lead to bloating and discomfort. Additionally, hydration plays a crucial role in fiber's effectiveness; without adequate water intake, fiber can exacerbate constipation rather than alleviate it.

The weight loss you noted, albeit modest, could also be a concern, especially if it is unintentional. Weight changes can sometimes signal underlying issues, such as malabsorption or chronic gastrointestinal conditions. Given that you have experienced abdominal pain, particularly in the left lower quadrant, it is essential to consider potential causes. This area of the abdomen can be associated with various conditions, including diverticulitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or even issues related to the reproductive organs in females.

Your description of pain that resolves after passing gas or having a bowel movement suggests that your symptoms may be related to gas buildup or intestinal motility issues. This is common in conditions like IBS, where the bowel's movement can be irregular, leading to discomfort and changes in stool consistency. Stress and anxiety can also significantly impact gut health, often exacerbating symptoms.

The acute pain in your left upper abdomen after meals could be related to several factors, including dietary choices, the speed of eating, or even the presence of gas. If this pain is recurrent or severe, it would be prudent to seek medical evaluation to rule out any serious conditions, such as gallbladder issues or gastritis.

While you mentioned hesitance to seek further medical evaluation due to the pandemic, it is crucial to prioritize your health. If your symptoms persist or worsen, a consultation with a gastroenterologist would be beneficial. They may recommend diagnostic tests such as blood work, imaging studies, or endoscopy to gain a clearer understanding of your gastrointestinal health.

In the meantime, consider keeping a food diary to track your diet and symptoms. This can help identify any potential food triggers or patterns that correlate with your bowel issues. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and managing stress through relaxation techniques or regular exercise (as permitted) can contribute positively to your gastrointestinal health.

In summary, while your symptoms may be manageable at the moment, they warrant attention to rule out any underlying conditions. Gastroenterology experts emphasize the importance of a comprehensive approach that includes dietary management, lifestyle modifications, and, when necessary, medical intervention to ensure optimal bowel health. If you have further concerns or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.

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