Abnormal Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Abnormal Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions

Hello： A 27-year-old female with black specks in her stool may have unabsorbed food fibers or seeds. <br>It can be monitored, but if there are concerns, a stool test can be performed. <br>Wishing you peace and health! Dr. <br>Lin Ming-Hui, Attending Physician, Gastroenterology, T

Bowel irregularities

Hello Doctor, I used to have normal brown, well-formed stools, but for the past few months, my bowel movements have often been loose, and sometimes I experience diarrhea.
A few weeks ago, I noticed that my stools were a golden yellow color, resembling that of pumpkin, and they were easy to pass.
Sometimes they were unformed, and other times they were formed but soft and sticky, appearing as loose lumps.
Each stool was also a dull yellow color with black specks.
I don’t recall eating foods like dragon fruit.
In the past few days, I have been taking probiotics, and my stools seem less loose; I can pass three or four well-formed pieces at a time, but they are still moist and soft, and they continue to have a dull yellow color with black specks.
There are also black specks on the toilet paper after wiping.
This condition has persisted until today...
I would like to know what might be causing this and how I should address it.
Thank you.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/06

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: A 27-year-old female with black specks in her stool may have unabsorbed food fibers or seeds.
It can be monitored, but if there are concerns, a stool test can be performed.
Wishing you peace and health! Dr.
Lin Ming-Hui, Attending Physician, Gastroenterology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2021/09/06

More Info

Abnormal bowel movements can be concerning, especially when there are noticeable changes in consistency, color, and frequency. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a range of symptoms that could be attributed to several factors, including dietary changes, stress, and possibly underlying gastrointestinal conditions.

Firstly, the change in your stool color to a golden yellow, resembling pumpkin, and the presence of black dots could be indicative of several things. The yellow color of stool can often be associated with the presence of bile, which is a digestive fluid produced by the liver. If your stool is consistently yellow and loose, it may suggest that food is passing through your digestive system too quickly, preventing proper absorption of nutrients. This can occur due to various reasons, including infections, dietary changes, or conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

The presence of black dots in your stool can be attributed to several factors. It could be due to undigested food particles, particularly if you have recently consumed foods rich in fiber or certain supplements. However, it can also indicate the presence of blood, especially if the black dots are tarry or sticky, which would suggest bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Given that you mentioned you have not consumed foods like dragon fruit, it is essential to monitor this symptom closely.

The fact that you have been taking probiotics and noticed some improvement in the consistency of your stool is a positive sign. Probiotics can help restore the balance of gut bacteria, which can be beneficial for digestion and may help alleviate symptoms of diarrhea. However, if the improvement is not consistent or if you continue to experience abnormal bowel movements, it may be necessary to explore further.

In terms of management, here are some recommendations:
1. Dietary Adjustments: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fiber, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid excessive intake of processed foods, high-fat foods, and sugary snacks, as these can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms. Keeping a food diary can help identify any specific foods that may trigger your symptoms.

2. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day. Dehydration can worsen diarrhea and lead to further complications.

3. Stress Management: Since stress can significantly impact gastrointestinal health, consider incorporating stress-reducing activities into your routine, such as exercise, meditation, or yoga.

4. Regular Monitoring: Keep track of your bowel movements, noting any changes in color, consistency, and frequency. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

5. Consultation with a Healthcare Provider: Given the changes you are experiencing, it would be prudent to consult with a gastroenterologist. They may recommend tests such as stool analysis, blood tests, or imaging studies to rule out any underlying conditions, such as infections, inflammatory bowel disease, or malabsorption syndromes.

6. Avoid Self-Medication: While probiotics can be beneficial, avoid taking multiple supplements or medications without consulting a healthcare professional, as this can complicate the clinical picture.

In conclusion, while some changes in bowel habits can be benign and related to diet or stress, persistent symptoms warrant further investigation. It is essential to approach this matter with a healthcare professional who can provide tailored advice and treatment based on a comprehensive evaluation of your symptoms and medical history.

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