Bowel Issues: Symptoms, Causes, and Dietary Solutions

Bowel movement issues

Hello, lately when I go to the bathroom to have a bowel movement, I still feel a lingering urge to go, as if something is stuck inside, giving me a sense of incomplete evacuation.
I have tried to push harder, but after a long time, it feels too hard to come out, and instead, I end up passing some thick stool.
Normally, I have bowel movements every 2-3 days, and I’ve noticed that my stool is sometimes shaped like a sausage and other times more mushy, with a brownish color, and I haven't seen any blood.
Recently, I had a health check-up at work, which included a stool test, and the results were normal.
I’ve been worried after researching online, wondering if this could be a sign of rectal cancer (my father had it a few years ago but has completed treatment), but since there’s no blood in my stool and I haven’t experienced any weight loss, I feel it might not be the case.
I’m thinking this might just be simple constipation, which is why I feel this way.
How can I improve this situation? I’m currently trying to adjust my diet by eating more fruits, vegetables, yogurt, and drinking probiotic drinks.
I want to see if these symptoms improve.
Additionally, I’ve been experiencing increased flatulence lately; my eating habits include having fruit cereal with soy milk or cow's milk for lunch.
Could this be the reason for the increased frequency of flatulence? Thank you.

Jack, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/01

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, you are experiencing difficulty in having a complete bowel movement, with a frequency of every 2-3 days.
There is a family history of colorectal cancer.
It is recommended to adjust your diet and develop healthy bowel habits.
Increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables can boost fiber intake, while yogurt and probiotics can enhance beneficial gut bacteria.

Regarding gas issues, certain foods like beans can cause gas, and for those who are lactose intolerant, milk can lead to diarrhea and bloating.
Sweet beverages may also contribute to bloating.
It is advisable to diversify your diet and avoid eating too quickly.
Ensure adequate hydration, fiber intake, and maintain good bowel habits.
Regular physical activity, relaxation, and timely follow-ups are important.
If you experience blood in your stool or unexplained weight loss, seek medical attention promptly.
If you have concerns, you may consult a colorectal surgeon or a gastroenterologist.

Wishing you health and well-being.

Sincerely,
Dr.
Ming-Hui Lin
Attending Physician, Gastroenterology
Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2021/06/01

More Info

Understanding bowel issues can be complex, as they often involve a combination of symptoms, dietary habits, and underlying health conditions. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a combination of constipation and a sensation of incomplete evacuation, which can be quite uncomfortable and concerning.

Symptoms and Possible Causes
The symptoms you describe—feeling of incomplete evacuation, hard stools, and occasional softer stools—are common indicators of constipation. Constipation can manifest in various ways, including:
1. Infrequent Bowel Movements: Having bowel movements less than three times a week is generally considered constipation.

2. Hard or Lumpy Stools: Stools that are hard, dry, or lumpy can be difficult to pass.

3. Straining During Bowel Movements: If you find yourself straining to pass stools, this can indicate that your bowel movements are not as regular or as easy as they should be.

4. Sensation of Incomplete Evacuation: This feeling can lead to discomfort and the urge to go again shortly after using the restroom.

Given your family history of colorectal issues, it is understandable to be concerned about more serious conditions such as colorectal cancer. However, the absence of alarming symptoms—such as blood in the stool, significant weight loss, or changes in appetite—along with normal results from your recent stool tests, suggests that your symptoms may be more related to functional issues like constipation rather than a serious underlying condition.

Dietary Solutions
Your current dietary adjustments—incorporating more fruits, vegetables, yogurt, and probiotics—are excellent steps toward improving your bowel health. Here are some additional dietary recommendations:
1. Increase Fiber Intake: Aim for a diet rich in dietary fiber, which can help to soften stools and promote regular bowel movements. Foods high in fiber include whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. Aim for at least 25-30 grams of fiber per day.

2. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is crucial for preventing constipation. Aim for at least 8-10 cups of fluids daily, and consider increasing your intake if you are consuming more fiber.

3. Limit Processed Foods: Try to reduce your intake of processed foods, which are often low in fiber and can contribute to constipation.

4. Monitor Dairy Intake: While yogurt can be beneficial due to its probiotics, some individuals may find that dairy products can contribute to gas and bloating. If you notice an increase in flatulence after consuming dairy, consider reducing your intake or opting for lactose-free alternatives.

5. Regular Meal Patterns: Eating regular meals can help stimulate bowel movements. Try not to skip meals and consider having smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.

Lifestyle Modifications
In addition to dietary changes, consider the following lifestyle modifications:
1. Regular Exercise: Physical activity can help stimulate digestion and promote regular bowel movements. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

2. Establish a Routine: Try to set aside time each day for bowel movements, especially after meals when the urge is stronger. This can help train your body to have more regular bowel habits.

3. Manage Stress: Stress can impact digestion and contribute to gastrointestinal issues. Consider incorporating relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises into your routine.

Conclusion
While your symptoms may be concerning, they are often manageable with dietary and lifestyle changes. Continue to monitor your symptoms, and if they persist or worsen, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation. They may recommend additional tests or treatments to ensure your bowel health is optimized. Remember, maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider is key to addressing any ongoing concerns you may have.

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