Concerns and Confusions About Bowel Issues in Young Adults

Concerns and doubts regarding certain bowel movement issues?

Hello, doctor.
First, let me provide my age and other information: I am currently 20 years old, 167 cm tall, and weigh 110 lbs.
I plan to lose weight, but due to academic pressure, my diet and sleep have been very irregular.
Since the second semester of my freshman year, I often go to bed around 2 or 3 AM (I am currently in my sophomore year).
At the end of last year, I experienced a very severe episode of diarrhea and had to visit many hospitals (both Western and traditional medicine) before I recovered.
However, after feeling better for a while, my stools started to become unformed.
I initially thought it was due to poor sleep.
Now, in the second semester of my sophomore year, with particularly heavy coursework, I often feel anxious and restless.
Over time, I have noticed a significant decrease in the volume of my bowel movements, and I’m not sure if I can describe it as urgency with incomplete evacuation.
I will be getting checked soon, but I would like to ask the doctor: is there a high likelihood of colon cancer in this situation, or should adjusting my routine help me recover? I seem to have some health anxiety, often worrying about potential issues with my body, but I can't feel at ease without asking.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/10

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery

At your age, the risk of colorectal cancer is low.
Some cases of early-onset colorectal cancer are associated with genetic history or strong environmental factors, but lifestyle habits have a greater impact on bowel movements.
Irregular bowel habits are related to diet, daily routines, and anxiety.
If avoiding late nights is difficult, you can start by increasing physical activity and adopting a low-fat, high-fiber diet.
It's also important to stay hydrated and consume dietary fiber to improve gut microbiota and promote bowel movements.
Maintain an optimistic mindset and try not to worry excessively; focus on gradually cultivating a healthy lifestyle while you are young.
Additionally, you may consider consulting a gastroenterologist or proctologist for further evaluation and screening.

Reply Date: 2022/03/10

More Info

It's understandable to have concerns about bowel health, especially at a young age when lifestyle changes and academic pressures can significantly impact your well-being. At 20 years old, the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer is extremely low, particularly in the absence of family history or other risk factors. Most bowel issues in young adults are related to dietary habits, stress, and lifestyle rather than serious conditions like cancer.

From what you've described, it seems that your irregular sleep patterns, stress from academic pressures, and possibly dietary choices are contributing to your bowel issues. Stress and anxiety can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal discomfort. This is often referred to as "irritable bowel syndrome" (IBS), which is common among young adults and can be triggered by stress and dietary changes.

Here are some suggestions to help improve your bowel health:
1. Dietary Adjustments: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fiber, which includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements and can alleviate symptoms of both constipation and diarrhea. Avoid excessive consumption of processed foods, high-fat meals, and sugary snacks, as these can exacerbate gastrointestinal issues.

2. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day. Proper hydration is essential for digestive health and can help prevent constipation.

3. Regular Meal Patterns: Try to establish regular meal times. Skipping meals or eating at irregular hours can disrupt your digestive system. Eating smaller, more frequent meals may also help.

4. Stress Management: Since you mentioned feeling anxious, consider incorporating stress-reducing activities into your routine. This could include exercise, meditation, yoga, or simply taking time to relax. Physical activity is particularly beneficial for digestive health.

5. Sleep Hygiene: Aim to improve your sleep schedule. Lack of sleep can negatively affect your overall health, including your digestive system. Try to establish a regular sleep routine, aiming for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.

6. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your bowel habits, including frequency, consistency, and any associated symptoms like pain or discomfort. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider if you decide to seek further evaluation.

7. Consult a Healthcare Professional: If your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend tests to rule out any underlying conditions, including gastrointestinal disorders.
8. Avoid Self-Diagnosis: While it's natural to worry about serious conditions like cancer, self-diagnosing can lead to unnecessary anxiety. Focus on making healthy lifestyle changes and seek professional advice when needed.

In summary, while your concerns are valid, the likelihood of serious conditions like colorectal cancer at your age is very low. By making lifestyle adjustments and managing stress, you can improve your bowel health and overall well-being. If symptoms persist, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for further evaluation and support.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Digestive Issues: Concerns About Bowel Changes in Teens

I am currently 17 years old and preparing for my college entrance exams, but my health has been concerning me to the point where I can't focus on studying. I've been staying up late since around the second year of junior high, and recently, over the past week or two, I&...

Dr. Cai Jinji reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Student Wu: If there is no improvement, it is recommended that you visit a gastroenterologist for a detailed consultation and examination, which may help resolve your concerns. Director Cai Jin-ji, Gastroenterology Department, Nantou Hospital.

Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms and Concerns for Young Adults

Hello Doctor: I am 19 years old and have been experiencing long-term gastrointestinal discomfort since I was about 16. I have visited multiple clinics, and over a year ago, I underwent an endoscopy at a municipal hospital, but no issues were found. However, I still have symptoms ...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
If the endoscopic examination shows no significant findings and the weight is normal, it is likely a motility issue, specifically irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). You should discuss medication and lifestyle adjustments with your physician.

Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions for Young Adults

I am 18 years old and moved from central Taiwan to the north for school. In the first few days after the semester started, everything was normal as usual. However, about a month later, I suddenly experienced a week of diarrhea. After visiting a clinic, I was diagnosed with gastro...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
This symptom is more characteristic of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which commonly presents with irregular bowel movements, diarrhea during times of stress, and occasionally, the presence of small amounts of blood and mucus in the stool. It is often seen in young individuals. ...

Addressing Digestive Concerns: A Teen's Guide to Gut Health

Doctor, I'm sorry to bother you, but I have a few questions. I am 16 years old, and my message is a bit long. 1. Recently, I've been experiencing soft stools and indigestion. My stools consist of undigested remnants of vegetables and fruits. At first, they were somewh...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
1. Supplementing gut bacteria may be beneficial; consuming yogurt can achieve this purpose. 2. While the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer at the age of 16 is not zero, it is generally very low. Based on your description, there doesn't seem to be any specific issu...