Digestive Issues: What Your Bowel Changes Might Mean

After having dinner that day, my bowel movement was strange, and I felt a sudden urgency, which made me very anxious?

Hello doctor, I am currently 17 years old.
One night, my family had a barbecue at home, and I ate a lot because it was so delicious.
After the meal, I felt uncomfortable in my stomach, as if the food was hard to digest.
Since then, my bowel movements have been irregular; sometimes I experience constipation, and other times I have stools that come out in pieces.
Occasionally, my stools are long but have a "flat and round" shape.
Am I at risk of having cancer? My appetite is good, and I have no other unusual symptoms in my body, only in my colon.
I love eating vegetables and make sure to include them in every meal.
I drink about 1500 to 2000 ml of water a day.
Why is my gastrointestinal system behaving this way? I am also afraid of getting a colonoscopy because I hear it can be painful.
What should I do?

Xiao Ying, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/08

Dr. Cai Jinji reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Sometimes improper diet can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort.
If symptoms persist, it is advisable to visit a hospital for evaluation, examination, and treatment by a physician.

Reply Date: 2015/07/08

More Info

It's understandable to be concerned about changes in bowel habits, especially at a young age. From your description, it seems like you are experiencing a mix of constipation and irregular stool shapes, which can be quite common and often not indicative of serious conditions like cancer, especially given your age and the absence of other alarming symptoms.

Firstly, let's break down what you are experiencing. The fact that you have had a heavy meal and then felt discomfort in your stomach suggests that your digestive system might be reacting to the amount or type of food consumed. Eating a large quantity of food, especially rich or fatty foods like those often found in barbecues, can lead to temporary digestive discomfort, bloating, and irregular bowel movements.

The changes in your stool, such as having it come out in pieces or being flat and wide, can be attributed to several factors:
1. Dietary Fiber: While you mentioned that you eat vegetables regularly, the overall balance of your diet matters. If your diet lacks sufficient fiber, it can lead to constipation. Fiber helps bulk up the stool and makes it easier to pass. You might want to ensure that you're getting a variety of fiber sources, including whole grains, fruits, and legumes.

2. Hydration: You indicated that you drink between 1500 to 2000 ml of water daily, which is generally adequate. However, if you are consuming a lot of fiber, you may need to increase your water intake to help facilitate digestion and prevent constipation.

3. Physical Activity: Regular physical activity can significantly impact your digestive health. If your activity level has decreased, it might contribute to slower digestion and constipation.

4. Stress and Anxiety: Psychological factors can also play a role in digestive health. If you are feeling anxious about your bowel movements or health, this can lead to changes in your gut function. Stress can exacerbate conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can cause alternating constipation and diarrhea.

5. Gut Flora: The balance of bacteria in your gut can affect digestion and stool consistency. Probiotics, found in yogurt and fermented foods, can help maintain a healthy gut flora.

Regarding your concern about cancer, it's important to note that bowel cancer is quite rare in individuals your age, especially in the absence of other symptoms such as significant weight loss, persistent abdominal pain, blood in the stool, or changes in appetite. The symptoms you describe are more likely related to dietary habits, digestive function, or stress rather than a serious condition.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide a thorough evaluation and may recommend tests if necessary. While the thought of a colonoscopy can be daunting, it is a standard procedure that can help rule out serious conditions if your doctor deems it necessary.

In the meantime, consider keeping a food diary to track what you eat and how it affects your digestion. This can help identify any specific foods that may be causing issues. Additionally, focus on maintaining a balanced diet rich in fiber, staying hydrated, and managing stress through relaxation techniques or physical activity.

Remember, it's always best to seek professional advice if you have ongoing concerns about your health. Your well-being is important, and addressing these issues early can lead to better outcomes.

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