Abnormal Stool: When to Seek Gastroenterology Help - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Abnormal Stool: When to Seek Gastroenterology Help

Hello Ms. <br>Chen： You can take a photo of your stool and bring it to the hospital for a consultation with a physician, which will help in determining the issue more accurately. <br>Dr. <br>Tsai Jin-chi from the Gastroenterology Department at Nantou Hospital.

Bowel issues

Hello, recently in April and May, my stools have been the thickness of my thumb or index finger, and I generally have to go twice, with the second time being unformed.
Sometimes the thickness varies between thumb, index finger, or little finger, or they appear flat.
Occasionally, I can have normal thickness stools a few times, but before this, I didn't notice any discomfort, as they were often unformed, and as long as they were in a shape, I didn't pay much attention.
I don't have a clear memory, but I could produce normal thickness stools when I was a teenager.
Once, I felt constipated, and the hard stool was the thickness of my index finger at the front, while the back was pencil-thin.
After that day, my stools returned to normal thickness, but then a few days later, they were again the thickness of my index or thumb.
On one occasion, the first and second stools were unformed, dark, and mushy, but there was some red around it, and I couldn't tell if it was blood; it disappeared when I stirred it.
Yesterday, on the 19th, the last stool I saw was of normal thickness, but it fell apart and was not visible.
Today, on the 20th, the stool was again the thickness of my index finger, with one piece the thickness of chopsticks.
The last piece, which hadn't sunk yet, had some small dark red patches on one side that looked sticky.
I feel like it might be blood, but I'm not sure if it's on the stool or mixed within it.
From Monday until today, I've only had one bowel movement in the morning, and my weight has been quite stable.
Occasionally, I feel a slight sharp pain in my abdomen, but there is no significant discomfort or pain.
I searched online and found information about colon cancer, which is quite frightening.

Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/20

Dr. Cai Jinji reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello Ms.
Chen: You can take a photo of your stool and bring it to the hospital for a consultation with a physician, which will help in determining the issue more accurately.
Dr.
Tsai Jin-chi from the Gastroenterology Department at Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2021/05/20

More Info

When it comes to abnormal stool characteristics, particularly changes in shape, consistency, and the presence of blood, it is crucial to understand the potential implications and when to seek medical attention. Based on your description, you have experienced variations in stool size, from thin (like a pencil) to normal, as well as instances of loose or unformed stools. Additionally, you noted the presence of dark red or reddish material that could be blood, which is understandably concerning.

Firstly, variations in stool size can be attributed to several factors, including dietary changes, hydration levels, and gastrointestinal health. For instance, a diet low in fiber can lead to harder, narrower stools, while a high-fiber diet typically results in softer, bulkier stools. The fact that you have experienced both thin and normal stools suggests that there may be fluctuations in your diet or digestive health.

The presence of blood in the stool, even if it appears as small red spots or mixed within the stool, warrants immediate attention. Blood can indicate a variety of conditions, ranging from benign issues like hemorrhoids or anal fissures to more serious conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or colorectal cancer. Given your age and the changes you've described, it's essential to take these symptoms seriously.

In your case, the intermittent nature of your symptoms, along with the occasional abdominal discomfort, suggests that there may be an underlying gastrointestinal issue that needs to be evaluated. While conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can cause changes in bowel habits and discomfort, the presence of blood is a red flag that should not be ignored.

It is advisable to seek a consultation with a gastroenterologist, especially since you have experienced these symptoms over a period of time. A thorough evaluation may include a physical examination, a review of your medical history, and potentially diagnostic tests such as a colonoscopy or imaging studies. These tests can help rule out serious conditions and provide clarity on the cause of your symptoms.

In addition to seeking medical advice, consider keeping a detailed record of your symptoms, including the frequency and characteristics of your stools, any associated abdominal pain, and dietary habits. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in diagnosing and managing your condition.

In summary, while changes in stool characteristics can be benign, the presence of blood and persistent changes in bowel habits necessitate a thorough evaluation by a gastroenterologist. Early intervention is key to addressing any potential issues and ensuring your gastrointestinal health. Don't hesitate to reach out for help; your health is paramount.

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