Changes in Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions

Bowel movement issues?

About a week ago, I started noticing that my stools have become thinner (approximately the size of an "OK" hand gesture with my thumb and index finger forming a circle, but previously they were noticeably thicker).
Sometimes, I feel like I am not completely emptying my bowels, and the sensation of abdominal bloating is more pronounced than before (I used to experience abdominal bloating from breathing through my mouth due to nasal congestion as a child, but it has become more severe recently).
Occasionally, I experience low-probability abdominal cramping before using the restroom.
What could be the cause of this? Can it be improved through diet and lifestyle changes, or is it necessary to go to the hospital for an examination?

Xiao Xie, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/20

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery

Based on the gastrointestinal symptoms you described, they are not sufficient for a definitive diagnosis.
It is recommended that you visit a hospital for further examination to clarify the issue for appropriate treatment.

Reply Date: 2021/03/20

More Info

Changes in bowel movements can be concerning, especially when they deviate from your normal patterns. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a combination of changes in stool consistency, size, and associated symptoms like abdominal bloating and occasional cramping. Let's break down the potential causes and solutions.

Potential Causes
1. Dietary Changes: One of the most common reasons for changes in bowel habits is alterations in diet. If you've recently changed what you eat—such as increasing fiber intake, consuming more dairy, or introducing new foods—this could lead to softer stools or changes in stool shape. Foods high in fat or sugar can also affect stool consistency.

2. Dehydration: Insufficient fluid intake can lead to harder stools, while excessive hydration can sometimes result in looser stools. It's essential to maintain a balanced intake of fluids.

3. Gut Microbiome Changes: The balance of bacteria in your gut can significantly influence digestion and stool characteristics. Stress, illness, or changes in diet can disrupt this balance, leading to symptoms like bloating and changes in bowel movements.

4. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This functional gastrointestinal disorder can cause symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits. Stress and certain foods can trigger symptoms.

5. Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or infections can lead to changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating. However, these conditions typically present with more severe symptoms.

6. Structural Changes: Narrowing of the intestines due to conditions like polyps or tumors can lead to thinner stools. Given your history of polyps, it’s essential to monitor any changes closely.

Recommendations
1. Dietary Adjustments: Start by keeping a food diary to identify any correlations between what you eat and your bowel movements. Gradually reintroduce or eliminate foods to see if symptoms improve. Focus on a balanced diet rich in fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while being cautious with high-fat and processed foods.

2. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day. Proper hydration can help maintain normal stool consistency.

3. Regular Exercise: Physical activity can promote healthy digestion and regular bowel movements. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

4. Stress Management: Since stress can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms, consider incorporating relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises into your routine.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including the frequency and consistency of your bowel movements, any associated pain, and dietary changes. This information will be valuable if you need to consult a healthcare provider.

6. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If your symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, worsen, or are accompanied by alarming signs such as significant weight loss, blood in the stool, or severe abdominal pain, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider may recommend tests such as stool analysis, imaging studies, or a colonoscopy to rule out any underlying conditions.

Conclusion
While changes in bowel habits can often be attributed to benign factors like diet and stress, it’s essential to remain vigilant. Monitoring your symptoms and making dietary adjustments can often lead to improvements. However, do not hesitate to seek medical advice if your symptoms persist or worsen. Early intervention can help address any potential issues before they become more serious.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Constipation: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Health

I often do not have the urge to have a bowel movement, but I frequently pass gas. Sometimes, I go several days without a bowel movement. Is there something wrong with my body?

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Possible causes of irregular bowel movements: 1. Dietary factors: abnormal intake of fluids and fiber. 2. Functional gastrointestinal disorders, irritable bowel syndrome. 3. Structural issues in the pelvic region of the colon: hemorrhoids, pelvic floor dysfunction, rectal prolaps...

Understanding Bowel Issues: Causes and Solutions for Gastrointestinal Health

Hello, doctor. Previously, I had a bout of gastroenteritis and did not see a doctor. I ate porridge for three days and gradually returned to normal meals, but my stools are sometimes ribbon-like and more often loose. On days when my routine is poor, I experience diarrhea, which c...

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery
Changes in bowel habits, gut microbiota, and defecation patterns are common after gastroenteritis. Since it is known that "poor lifestyle habits" can lead to diarrhea and other issues, it is essential to modify these habits to normalize gut function, which is the fundam...

Is Sudden Change to Regular Bowel Movements a Cause for Concern?

I have had difficulty with bowel movements since childhood; there were times when I could go a week without a bowel movement. However, just before I turned 30, my bowel movements suddenly became regular. Earlier this year, I underwent hemorrhoidectomy at Tri-Service General Hospi...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
The key symptoms in your case are the increasingly narrow stools and loss of appetite, rather than a change from constipation to regular bowel movements. Additionally, you have undergone a colonoscopy this year with no issues (if there were any problems, the physician would have ...

Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: What You Need to Know

Hello Doctor, I have recently noticed changes in my bowel habits. I usually have a bowel movement around noon and again in the evening, but lately, the amount has decreased. The stools are neither thick nor thin, but they are shorter in length compared to before, when I would hav...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
As long as there is only a change in the shape of the stool without any bleeding or weight loss, it can be monitored further.