Unusual Bowel Movements and Weight Loss: Seeking Gastroenterology Advice

Stool, postprandial borborygmi, weight loss inquiry?

I would like to ask the doctor, I had a colonoscopy at the clinic in early May, where three benign polyps were removed.
The doctor did not schedule a follow-up appointment, stating that my intestines are very healthy.
However, since mid-April until now, at the end of June, my bowel movements have been very irregular; sometimes they are thick, sometimes thin, with significant variation.
Occasionally, I have loose stools.
I have lost 4 to 5 kilograms in weight over the past two months, and I experience loud bowel sounds after meals.
Recently, I have also had tonsillitis in my throat for almost a month, and the medication hasn’t helped much.
My breathing feels labored at times, requiring deep breaths.
Additionally, my eyes have been showing a lot of blood vessels at night.
I would like to know how I should seek medical attention for my current condition.
Thank you, doctor.

joe, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/23

Dr. Yang Zhichao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello Mr.
Joe, regarding your weight loss and bowel/gurgling issues, you may consult a gastroenterologist.
The throat problem could also be related to gastroesophageal reflux, so seeing a gastroenterologist would be appropriate.
However, if these issues cannot be resolved, I recommend further examinations such as blood tests or an abdominal ultrasound.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2021/06/23

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a range of gastrointestinal symptoms that are concerning, especially given your recent history of bowel issues and weight loss. The combination of unusual bowel movements, significant weight loss, and other symptoms such as loud bowel sounds and throat inflammation warrants a thorough evaluation by a gastroenterologist.

Firstly, the variability in your bowel movements—sometimes thick, sometimes thin, and occasionally in a scattered form—can indicate several potential issues. These fluctuations could be related to dietary changes, stress, or underlying gastrointestinal disorders such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or even inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. Given that you had polyps removed during your colonoscopy, it’s crucial to monitor your bowel habits closely, as changes can sometimes be indicative of other underlying conditions.

Weight loss of 4 to 5 kilograms over two months is significant, especially if it is unintentional. This could be due to a variety of factors, including malabsorption of nutrients, decreased appetite, or increased metabolic demands due to illness. It’s essential to address this with your healthcare provider, as unintentional weight loss can lead to nutritional deficiencies and other health complications.

The loud bowel sounds you are experiencing after meals may be a sign of increased intestinal activity, which can occur in conditions such as IBS or after consuming certain types of food that may irritate your gut. Keeping a food diary can be helpful in identifying any specific triggers that may exacerbate your symptoms.

Your throat inflammation and difficulty breathing are also concerning. Chronic throat issues can sometimes be related to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid irritates the throat and can lead to inflammation. However, if you are experiencing significant breathing difficulties, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention, as this could indicate a more serious condition.

Given your symptoms, I recommend the following steps:
1. Consult a Gastroenterologist: Schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist to discuss your symptoms in detail. They may recommend further testing, such as additional imaging studies, blood tests, or even repeat endoscopy, to assess your gastrointestinal health.

2. Monitor Your Diet: Keep a detailed food diary to track what you eat and how it correlates with your symptoms. This can help identify any food intolerances or triggers.

3. Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you are staying hydrated and consider consulting a nutritionist to help manage your weight loss and ensure you are getting adequate nutrition.

4. Manage Stress: Stress can significantly impact gastrointestinal health. Consider incorporating stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or regular exercise into your routine.

5. Follow Up on Throat Symptoms: If your throat inflammation persists or worsens, consider seeing an ENT specialist to rule out any other underlying conditions.

6. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any new symptoms, such as changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, or any other concerning signs, and report these to your healthcare provider.

In summary, your symptoms warrant a comprehensive evaluation by a gastroenterologist, especially given your recent history of bowel issues and weight loss. It’s essential to address these concerns promptly to ensure your gastrointestinal health and overall well-being.

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