Unusual Bowel Movements: Causes and Concerns

Abnormal stool?

Recently, I've been experiencing something strange during bowel movements.
It feels somewhat like fries, and my stomach hurts a lot.
In the past few days, my stools have been somewhat watery.
What could be the cause of this? Also, when I wipe my bottom, the toilet paper is very wet and resembles diarrhea.

Pa Pa De, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/03/07

Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology

Please visit a hospital to see a gastroenterologist or a colorectal specialist.

Reply Date: 2006/03/07

More Info

Understanding unusual bowel movements can be quite concerning, especially when accompanied by pain and changes in stool consistency. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a combination of symptoms that could be indicative of several gastrointestinal issues.
Firstly, the fact that your stools resemble "fries" suggests that they may be narrow or elongated, which can sometimes be associated with straining during bowel movements or the presence of an obstruction in the intestines. The pain you experience during bowel movements could be due to several factors, including anal fissures, hemorrhoids, or even muscle spasms in the rectal area. If your stools are also watery, this could indicate diarrhea, which may be caused by infections, dietary changes, or even stress.

The presence of watery stools and the sensation of pain can be linked to a condition known as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), which is characterized by a combination of abdominal pain and altered bowel habits, including diarrhea and constipation. IBS can be triggered by various factors, including diet, stress, and hormonal changes. It is essential to monitor your diet and identify any potential triggers, such as high-fat foods, dairy, caffeine, or spicy foods, which can exacerbate symptoms.

Additionally, the watery consistency of your stools and the pain you describe could also be indicative of an infection, such as gastroenteritis, which can cause inflammation of the stomach and intestines, leading to diarrhea and abdominal pain. If you have recently traveled, changed your diet, or been in contact with someone who has had gastrointestinal issues, this could be a possibility.

Another important consideration is the possibility of food intolerances or allergies. For instance, lactose intolerance can lead to diarrhea and abdominal discomfort after consuming dairy products. Similarly, gluten sensitivity can cause similar symptoms. Keeping a food diary may help you identify any correlations between what you eat and your bowel movements.

The fact that you notice a change in the appearance of your stool, especially if it is consistently watery or accompanied by blood or mucus, warrants further investigation. Blood in the stool, even if it appears as a small amount on the toilet paper, should not be ignored, as it can indicate conditions such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or more serious gastrointestinal issues like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or colorectal cancer.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, preferably a gastroenterologist, who can perform a thorough evaluation. This may include a physical examination, stool tests, and possibly imaging studies or a colonoscopy, depending on your age and risk factors.
In summary, your symptoms of unusual bowel movements, pain, and watery stools could be attributed to several potential causes, including IBS, infections, food intolerances, or more serious conditions. Keeping track of your symptoms and discussing them with a healthcare provider will be crucial in determining the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Remember, early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so don't hesitate to seek medical advice.

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