Bowel Movement Changes: When to Seek Medical Advice

Q: Bowel Movement Changes: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello： In response to your concerns, you are worrying too much. <br>Firstly, at the age of 21, it is unlikely to develop colorectal cancer, as the risk significantly increases after the age of 40. <br>Secondly, your bowel habits do not indicate a significant change; they can be c

Bowel movement issues

I have always had a habit of constipation, often passing small, pellet-like stools.
However, since returning home for the winter break, my bowel movements have improved; I have been passing softer, formed stools, sometimes even twice a day.
Yet, I still experience constipation occasionally (not having a bowel movement all day or passing pellet-like stools).
I initially thought this improvement was due to being at home with less stress.
Miraculously, since the start of the semester, I have continued to have formed stools daily (sometimes twice a day, but they are small and thin).
However, yesterday I suddenly had no urge to go at all, so I didn't have a bowel movement all day.
This morning, after drinking coffee (I had some bread first to settle my stomach), I felt a slight urge but only passed a few pellet-like stools along with a lot of yellow, sticky mucus.
After researching online, I found that changes in bowel habits, alternating diarrhea and constipation, and thinner stools can be signs of colorectal cancer.
Is my recent pattern of alternating bowel movements considered normal? Does diarrhea have to be watery to qualify? Are my stools considered soft? I would appreciate your insights, doctor.
Thank you!

pinggu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/02/24

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Hello: In response to your concerns, you are worrying too much.
Firstly, at the age of 21, it is unlikely to develop colorectal cancer, as the risk significantly increases after the age of 40.
Secondly, your bowel habits do not indicate a significant change; they can be classified as irregular bowel habits.
To differentiate between the two, one should look for symptoms of obstruction.
Changes in bowel habits due to colorectal cancer are typically caused by tumors leading to partial bowel obstruction, which results in several days of constipation accompanied by fecal leakage.
In summary, your situation is a common phenomenon among students living away from home, primarily due to insufficient fiber intake from eating out and irregular lifestyle habits.
Improvement is simple: increase your intake of fruits and vegetables, reduce late-night activities, and drink more water.
This will naturally help restore normal bowel habits.
Keep it up!

Reply Date: 2008/02/24

More Info

Understanding bowel movement changes can be quite complex, and it’s important to recognize when these changes may warrant medical attention. Based on your description, it seems you have experienced fluctuations in your bowel habits, which can be influenced by various factors including diet, stress, and lifestyle changes.

Firstly, let’s clarify what constitutes normal bowel movements. Generally, normal bowel habits can vary widely among individuals, but most people have bowel movements anywhere from three times a week to three times a day. The consistency of stool can also vary, with the Bristol Stool Chart being a useful tool to categorize stool types. Type 1 and 2 are considered constipated (hard and lumpy), while Type 3 and 4 are considered normal (like a sausage or snake, smooth and soft). Type 5 is soft blobs with clear-cut edges, and Types 6 and 7 are considered diarrhea (fluffy pieces with ragged edges or watery).

From your account, it appears that you have been experiencing both constipation (described as "sheep-like" stools) and periods of more regular bowel movements with softer, tubular stools. The fact that you have had some days with no bowel movement followed by days of softer stools suggests a pattern of alternating bowel habits, which can be common and may not necessarily indicate a serious condition. However, the presence of mucus or any significant changes in your stool characteristics can be concerning.

You mentioned that you are worried about the possibility of colorectal cancer due to the changes in your bowel habits. While it is true that changes in bowel habits, including alternating constipation and diarrhea, can be a symptom of colorectal cancer, they can also be attributed to a variety of other benign conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), dietary changes, or stress. It’s important to consider other symptoms that may accompany these changes, such as weight loss, blood in the stool, or persistent abdominal pain, which would necessitate a more immediate evaluation.

In terms of your specific questions:
1. Is this alternating pattern normal? Fluctuations in bowel habits can be normal, especially with changes in diet or stress levels. However, if these changes persist or worsen, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider.

2. What constitutes diarrhea? Diarrhea is typically characterized by loose, watery stools occurring more than three times a day. Your description of "soft" stools may not qualify as diarrhea unless they are excessively watery.

3. Is what I have considered soft stool? Based on your description of having tubular and soft stools, it sounds like you are experiencing a range of stool consistencies, which can be normal. However, if you are concerned about the presence of mucus or the consistency of your stools, it would be beneficial to discuss this with a healthcare provider.

In conclusion, while your recent changes in bowel habits may not immediately indicate a serious condition, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience any alarming symptoms such as significant weight loss, blood in your stool, or persistent changes in your bowel habits, you should seek medical advice promptly. Regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider can help ensure that any potential issues are addressed early on.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello doctor, my bowel habits have changed for a while now, and it has been almost six months. I used to have regular bowel movements, but now I either go a long time without a bowel movement or I have difficulty passing stool. The consistency of my stool is also inconsistent. So...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
If there is no bleeding or weight loss, it is likely a change in digestive motility. Pay attention to diet, hydration, and exercise. If concerned, a stool occult blood test can be performed first.

Understanding Changes in Bowel Movements: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello, doctor. During my midterm exam today, I suddenly experienced intermittent cramping in my abdomen. I hurriedly submitted my exam and went to the restroom. At first, I had to exert some effort to pass my stool, but then it turned into a loose, diarrhea-like consistency. Howe...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If it is just an occasional occurrence, there is no need to worry excessively; it may be influenced by consuming irritating foods or mental stress. However, if there is a persistent change in bowel habits compared to the past, you should consult a gastroenterologist. Chang...

Understanding Frequent Bowel Movements: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello, I have been having regular bowel movements every morning for the past 4.5 years. Recently, I have noticed that after lunch, I often feel the urge to have another bowel movement, but the amount is very small, as if I am just finishing what I didn't completely evacuate ...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, generally speaking, when there are gastrointestinal dysfunctions, there can be changes in bowel habits. This can be purely functional or may involve significant structural abnormalities (such as inflammation, polyps, tumors, etc.), which subsequently lead to functional iss...

Understanding Recent Changes in Bowel Habits: When to Seek Medical Advice

1. For about a week and a few days, I have been experiencing mostly watery stools, occasionally having softer, ribbon-like stools. Previously, I would usually have bowel movements around noon, but for the past week, I often have watery stools in the afternoon or evening. I freque...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It may be necessary to review your diet for any irritant foods, alcohol consumption, betel nut chewing, caffeinated beverages, or high-water-content fruits. Additionally, I'm not sure if you have previously been diagnosed with COVID-19, as some individuals who have ha...