Flat Stools: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice

The stool is flat or thin?

Hello Doctor, I am the person who previously asked (https://adoctor.tw/article/172641 [email protected]).
Recently, I suddenly noticed that my stools are flat, about the width of a 5 to 10 NT dollar coin.
The color is normal, but sometimes I experience a bit of pain and a small amount of bright red blood when wiping, usually after wiping multiple times.
I would like to ask if this is normal? Could this be related to irritable bowel syndrome or hemorrhoids?

Huang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/25

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Flat stools can be improved by increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables.
Additionally, the anus may be experiencing mild hemorrhoidal inflammation, so it is advisable to seek medical treatment and use medication.
Avoid prolonged sitting and maintain cleanliness and dryness.

Reply Date: 2022/02/25

More Info

Flat stools, or stools that appear thin and ribbon-like, can be concerning for many individuals. The shape and consistency of stools can provide valuable insights into gastrointestinal health. In your case, the presence of flat stools, along with occasional pain and minor bleeding during wiping, warrants a closer examination.

Possible Causes of Flat Stools
1. Dietary Factors: A diet low in fiber can lead to changes in stool shape and consistency. Insufficient fiber intake can result in harder stools that may be more difficult to pass, potentially leading to straining and the formation of flat stools.

2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): IBS is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. While IBS can cause a variety of stool shapes, some individuals may experience flat stools as a result of altered bowel motility.

3. Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids, or swollen blood vessels in the rectal area, can cause pain and bleeding during bowel movements. The straining associated with hemorrhoids can also lead to changes in stool shape. If you are experiencing pain and minor bleeding, it is possible that hemorrhoids could be contributing to your symptoms.

4. Colon Polyps or Tumors: In some cases, flat stools can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as colon polyps or colorectal cancer. These conditions can cause a narrowing of the bowel lumen, leading to changes in stool shape. It is crucial to consider this possibility, especially if the change in stool shape persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

When to Seek Medical Advice
Given your symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. You should seek medical attention if:
- The flat stools persist for more than a few days.

- You experience significant abdominal pain or discomfort.

- There is a notable change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation.

- You notice any additional symptoms, such as weight loss, fatigue, or changes in appetite.

- The bleeding becomes more frequent or severe.

Diagnostic Steps
A healthcare provider may recommend several diagnostic steps to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms:
1. Medical History and Physical Examination: A thorough medical history and physical examination can help identify potential causes of your symptoms.

2. Stool Tests: Stool tests can help rule out infections or other gastrointestinal issues.

3. Colonoscopy: If there are concerns about polyps or tumors, a colonoscopy may be recommended. This procedure allows for direct visualization of the colon and the opportunity to take biopsies if necessary.

4. Imaging Studies: In some cases, imaging studies such as a CT scan may be ordered to assess the gastrointestinal tract.

Conclusion
While flat stools can be caused by benign factors such as dietary changes or hemorrhoids, they can also indicate more serious conditions. Given your symptoms of pain and minor bleeding, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation. Early diagnosis and intervention can lead to better outcomes and peace of mind. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to changes in bowel habits and gastrointestinal health.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Flat Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello, several years ago I had a colonoscopy that revealed a 0.8 cm colorectal adenoma, which was removed. The doctor advised follow-up in one year to check for a propensity to develop polyps. During the follow-up, no new polyps were found. Subsequently, during a follow-up two ye...

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery
Changes in stool shape caused by colorectal tumors are due to a narrowing of the intestinal lumen, which leads to the stool being squeezed through the constricted area, resulting in thinner stools. If the obstruction becomes more severe, symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrh...

Understanding Flat Stool: Is It a Sign of Digestive Issues?

Hello Dr. Chen, I would like to inquire about something. For the past six months, my stools have been consistently flat and ribbon-shaped. Could this be a sign of a disease?

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
You can test for occult blood in the stool; make sure to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables!

Understanding Flat Stools: Causes and What They Mean for Your Health

Hello doctor, I would like to ask what it means when my stool becomes flattened (not formed).

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
You may have insufficient fiber intake; please eat more fruits and vegetables.

Understanding Bowel Issues: Causes and Solutions for Irregular Stool

Doctor, I would like to ask about my recent bowel movements. Sometimes my stool is in a complete cylindrical shape, while at other times I experience diarrhea-like, mushy stools coming out simultaneously. I maintain an exercise routine and consume yogurt, but I still cannot resol...

Dr. Hu Guozheng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Dear Ian, Changes in bowel habits are actually quite common. Aside from pathological conditions such as intestinal inflammation or tumors, benign factors can also lead to these changes, such as alterations in diet and lifestyle, stress, changes in gut microbiota, or intolerance...