Bowel Issues: Why Do My Stools Change Throughout the Day?

Bowel issues?

I have a question for the doctor.
Recently, I've noticed that when I feel the urge to have a bowel movement in the morning but don't go, by the time I go in the evening, the stool is small and pellet-like, resembling rabbit droppings, and the odor is stronger compared to the longer stools I usually have.
However, the next day, after eating, I suddenly feel the need to have a large bowel movement, which is typically long and substantial.
I'm curious about why this happens.
In the morning, my stools are usually long and plentiful, but in the evening, I rarely have long stools; instead, they are mostly pellet-like.
I tend to be busy in the morning, so I don't go even if I don't feel an urgent need.
When I do go in the evening, I find it difficult to pass a long stool, and I often feel discomfort in the lower abdomen, just below the navel, especially in the evening.
This symptom has persisted for a while, and I would like to seek clarification from the deputy director.
Is this a symptom of colorectal cancer? Thank you.
I have undergone fecal occult blood tests, abdominal ultrasound, gastroscopy, and routine blood tests.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/11/02

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Everyone's bowel response is different.
It is recommended to eat more fruits and vegetables, not to eat too quickly during meals, take a walk after eating, and then observe the changes.

Reply Date: 2023/11/02

More Info

Understanding bowel issues can be quite complex, especially when you notice changes in your stool consistency and frequency throughout the day. Based on your description, it seems that you experience a significant difference between your morning and evening bowel movements. In the morning, you tend to have longer, more substantial stools, while in the evening, you notice smaller, pellet-like stools that resemble rabbit droppings. This variation can be attributed to several factors, including diet, hydration, stress, and bowel habits.

Firstly, it’s essential to understand that bowel movements can be influenced by the time of day due to the body's natural circadian rhythms. Many people experience a stronger urge to defecate in the morning, often due to the gastrocolic reflex, which is a physiological response where the stomach signals the colon to empty after eating. If you delay this urge, it can lead to changes in stool consistency. When you finally do go later in the day, the stool may be harder and more compact due to prolonged retention in the colon, which allows more water to be absorbed, resulting in the pellet-like stools you described.

Additionally, your mention of discomfort in the lower abdomen, particularly in the evening, could indicate that your bowel is not functioning optimally. This discomfort may be due to a buildup of stool in the colon, which can cause distension and cramping. If you are experiencing this discomfort regularly, it may be beneficial to consider your dietary habits. A diet low in fiber can lead to harder stools, while a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can promote regular bowel movements and softer stools.

Hydration is another critical factor. Insufficient fluid intake can lead to dehydration, which can cause the stool to become hard and difficult to pass. Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day, especially if you consume a high-fiber diet, as fiber absorbs water and requires adequate hydration to aid in digestion.

Stress and anxiety can also significantly impact bowel habits. Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can cause variations in stool consistency and frequency, often exacerbated by stress. If you find that your bowel habits change in response to stress or anxiety, it may be worth exploring stress management techniques or discussing this with a healthcare professional.

Regarding your concerns about colorectal cancer, it’s understandable to be worried, especially given the changes in your bowel habits. However, the fact that you have undergone tests such as a stool occult blood test, abdominal ultrasound, and gastroscopy, all of which returned normal results, is reassuring. These tests are essential in ruling out serious conditions, including cancer. If you continue to experience symptoms or if your bowel habits change significantly, it would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, the changes in your bowel movements throughout the day can be attributed to various factors, including dietary habits, hydration, stress, and the timing of your bowel movements. It is crucial to maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and manage stress effectively. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical advice is always a good idea to ensure there are no underlying health issues.

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