Unexplained Fecal Odor and Frequent Bowel Urges

How does the body have a fecal odor?

Doctor, I have a question.
Recently, I've been feeling strange; my bowel movement frequency is very high, and my body has a fecal odor.
When I go to the bathroom to wipe, there is no stool, but I constantly feel the urge to have a bowel movement.
It's so weird! Also, I pass gas without realizing it, and air is released involuntarily.
Why is this happening? Is this fecal incontinence? I'm really upset.

Mr. Wu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/10/16

Dr. Lin Hongmao reply Surgery

Dear Mr.
Wu,
Regarding your concerns, there are two main issues: the frequency of bowel movements and the inability to control flatulence.
In fact, each person's bowel movement frequency is a matter of habit, ranging from three times a day to once every three days.
If you also experience long-term abdominal pain, bloating, and relief of symptoms after bowel movements or passing gas, it may indicate Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
The increase in bowel movement frequency is generally not a serious issue.

As for the problem with flatulence, gas in the intestines can be produced from air swallowed or from the breakdown of food in the colon, leading to gas formation.
If this causes bloating and the intestines cannot absorb the gas, the body will naturally expel it.
Therefore, passing gas is not a bad thing; it is simply a social etiquette that may make us uncomfortable in public settings.
So, there is no need to worry.
If you have further questions, please feel free to reach out.
Wishing you good health,
Lin Hong-Mao

Reply Date: 2004/10/16

More Info

Experiencing frequent bowel urges and an unusual fecal odor can be distressing and may indicate an underlying gastrointestinal issue. Based on your description, it seems you are dealing with a combination of symptoms that could be related to several conditions, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastrointestinal infections, or even dietary factors.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Frequent Bowel Urges: This symptom can be associated with conditions like IBS, where the bowel becomes overly sensitive and reacts strongly to various stimuli, leading to increased urgency. IBS can also cause alternating symptoms of diarrhea and constipation, which might explain the frequent urges without the actual passage of stool.

2. Fecal Odor: The presence of a fecal odor, even when you are not having bowel movements, can be linked to several factors. It could be due to the presence of gas in the intestines, which can sometimes carry a strong odor. This gas can be a result of fermentation of undigested food in the intestines, often influenced by diet, gut flora, or even infections.

3. Involuntary Gas Release: The involuntary release of gas can occur due to increased intestinal motility or sensitivity, which can be a hallmark of IBS or other gastrointestinal disorders. It may also be related to dietary choices, such as high fiber or gas-producing foods (e.g., beans, cruciferous vegetables).

Possible Causes
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits. Stress and certain foods can exacerbate symptoms.

- Gastrointestinal Infections: Infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites can lead to increased bowel movements and changes in stool odor. If you have recently traveled or consumed questionable food, this could be a possibility.

- Dietary Factors: High intake of certain foods can lead to increased gas production and changes in bowel habits. Foods high in fiber, sugar alcohols, or certain carbohydrates can lead to fermentation in the gut.

- Malabsorption Issues: Conditions like lactose intolerance or celiac disease can lead to undigested food in the intestines, resulting in increased gas and changes in stool odor.

Recommendations
1. Dietary Review: Keep a food diary to track what you eat and how it correlates with your symptoms. This can help identify any food triggers.

2. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough water, as this can help with digestion and may alleviate some symptoms.

3. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Given the distressing nature of your symptoms, it would be wise to consult a gastroenterologist. They may recommend tests such as stool analysis, blood tests, or imaging studies to rule out infections or other gastrointestinal disorders.

4. Consider Probiotics: Probiotics may help restore a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which can be beneficial for digestive health.

5. Stress Management: Since stress can exacerbate IBS symptoms, consider incorporating stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, or regular exercise into your routine.

Conclusion
While your symptoms can be concerning, they are often manageable with the right approach. It’s essential to seek professional medical advice to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Remember, you are not alone in this, and many people experience similar gastrointestinal issues. With proper care and attention, you can find relief and improve your quality of life.

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