Your Bowel Issues: When to Seek Further Testing - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Your Bowel Issues: When to Seek Further Testing

Hello Ms. <br>SS： If there are changes or abnormalities in bowel habits, it is advisable to consider getting checked (cancer is just a reference). <br>Dr. <br>Cai JinjI, Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology, Nantou Hospital.

Bowel issues

Hello, Dr.
Tsai.
I have been a patient with constipation since childhood.
Recently, I have been drinking some green juice to adjust my digestive system.
Over the past two days, my bowel movements have been long and thin, resembling worms, or in small, segmented pieces.
I do not have any abdominal pain, blood in my stool, or other symptoms, and there is no family history of colorectal cancer.
Last September, my company conducted a blood test for cancer markers, and the results were normal.
Do I still need to undergo a fecal occult blood test?

SS, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/01/28

Dr. Cai Jinji reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello Ms.
SS: If there are changes or abnormalities in bowel habits, it is advisable to consider getting checked (cancer is just a reference).
Dr.
Cai JinjI, Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2024/01/28

More Info

When it comes to bowel issues, especially those involving changes in stool consistency and frequency, it is essential to understand when further testing is necessary. Based on your description of experiencing long, thin stools resembling worms, along with a history of constipation, it’s important to consider several factors before deciding on the next steps.

Firstly, the shape and consistency of your stools can provide valuable insights into your gastrointestinal health. Stools that are thin and long can sometimes indicate a narrowing of the intestinal passage, which could be due to various reasons, including but not limited to, dietary changes, dehydration, or more serious conditions such as colorectal cancer or strictures. However, given that you have no accompanying symptoms such as abdominal pain, blood in the stool, or significant changes in your bowel habits, it may not immediately indicate a serious issue.

The fact that you have a history of constipation and are currently trying to improve your bowel health with dietary changes, such as drinking green juice, is a positive step. Increasing fiber intake and hydration can often help alleviate constipation and improve stool consistency. However, if these changes do not lead to improvement or if you continue to notice abnormal stool shapes, it may warrant further investigation.

Regarding the fecal occult blood test (FOBT), this test is typically recommended if there are concerns about bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. Since you mentioned that you do not have any blood in your stool or other alarming symptoms, the necessity for this test may not be urgent. However, it is still a good idea to discuss this with your healthcare provider, especially considering your history of constipation and the recent changes in your stool.

Additionally, you mentioned that you had a blood test for cancer markers last September, which returned normal. While this is reassuring, it is important to note that these tests are not definitive for ruling out all gastrointestinal issues. They can provide some information, but they do not replace the need for thorough clinical evaluation and possibly imaging or endoscopic procedures if warranted.

In terms of family history, the absence of colorectal cancer in your family reduces your risk, but it does not eliminate it entirely. It is essential to remain vigilant about any changes in your bowel habits and to communicate these changes with your healthcare provider.

If you continue to experience thin stools or any new symptoms arise, such as changes in appetite, unexplained weight loss, or persistent changes in bowel habits, it would be prudent to seek further evaluation. This could include a colonoscopy, especially if you are over the age of 50 or have other risk factors for colorectal disease.

In conclusion, while your current symptoms may not immediately necessitate a fecal occult blood test, it is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about your bowel health. Regular monitoring and proactive management of your gastrointestinal symptoms can help ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly. If you have any concerns or if your symptoms persist, do not hesitate to seek further testing or a specialist's opinion. Your health is paramount, and being proactive about changes in your body is always the best approach.

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