Foul Gas: When to Seek Medical Advice for Digestive Issues

Q: Foul Gas: When to Seek Medical Advice for Digestive Issues

Hello： 1. <br>Everyone's timing is different; generally, individuals with faster intestinal motility may have bowel movements within a few hours after eating, while some people may take 2-3 days or more. <br>2. <br>Pay attention to your diet, reducing oil, meat, and legumes. <br>

Questions related to flatulence?

Hello Doctor, I have recently (within the past week) started experiencing very foul-smelling flatulence, and the frequency has noticeably increased compared to the past.
I pass gas during the day, and sometimes I wake up at night having done so as well; I estimate that I pass gas about 8 times a day.
Typically, foul-smelling gas is followed by diarrhea, but in the past few days, my bowel movements have been normal, although they are not very long, measuring about 10 centimeters in length.
Until today, after dinner, about 2 hours later, I had a large amount of loose stool (somewhat like mud).
I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
Is it possible that the bowel movement 2 hours after eating could be related to the previous meals, or could it be from the most recent meal? 2.
Is my persistent foul-smelling flatulence, based on the description, considered abnormal? What should I pay attention to in order to determine if I need to seek medical attention? Thank you, Doctor.

Ben, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/28

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: 1.
Everyone's timing is different; generally, individuals with faster intestinal motility may have bowel movements within a few hours after eating, while some people may take 2-3 days or more.
2.
Pay attention to your diet, reducing oil, meat, and legumes.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2022/02/28

More Info

When it comes to digestive issues, particularly those involving foul-smelling gas and changes in bowel habits, it’s important to understand the potential underlying causes and when to seek medical advice. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing an increase in the frequency and odor of flatulence, along with changes in your bowel movements. Let’s break down your concerns and provide some insights.

1. Timing of Bowel Movements: You mentioned having a bowel movement two hours after dinner, which raises the question of whether this could be related to your most recent meal. Typically, the digestive process can take several hours, and it’s not uncommon for bowel movements to occur several hours after eating. However, if you are experiencing significant changes in your bowel habits, such as the consistency and frequency of your stools, it may indicate a change in your digestive health. The fact that you had a large, loose stool resembling "mud" could suggest that your body is reacting to something in your diet or a change in your gut flora.

2. Increased Flatulence: The increase in foul-smelling gas can be attributed to several factors. Diet plays a significant role; certain foods, especially those high in fiber, sugars, or certain carbohydrates (like beans, lentils, dairy products, and cruciferous vegetables), can lead to increased gas production. Additionally, if you have recently changed your diet or introduced new foods, this could explain the change. Other factors could include gastrointestinal infections, food intolerances (such as lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity), or even changes in gut bacteria due to antibiotics or other medications.

3. When to Seek Medical Advice: While occasional foul-smelling gas and changes in bowel habits can be normal, there are specific signs that warrant a visit to a healthcare provider. You should consider seeking medical advice if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent diarrhea or changes in stool consistency lasting more than a few days.

- Blood in your stool or black, tarry stools.

- Severe abdominal pain or cramping.

- Unexplained weight loss.

- Symptoms of dehydration (such as excessive thirst, dry mouth, or decreased urination).

- Any new or unusual symptoms that concern you.

4. Possible Investigations: If you do seek medical attention, your healthcare provider may recommend several tests to determine the cause of your symptoms. These could include blood tests, stool tests, imaging studies (like an abdominal ultrasound or CT scan), or even endoscopic procedures if necessary.
5. Dietary Considerations: In the meantime, consider keeping a food diary to track what you eat and any symptoms that follow. This can help identify any potential food intolerances or triggers. Additionally, staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can support digestive health.

In conclusion, while changes in gas production and bowel habits can often be benign, it’s essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you notice any concerning signs or if the symptoms persist, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. Your digestive health is crucial, and addressing any issues early can lead to better outcomes.

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