Should You See a Doctor for Unusual Stool Shape and Color?

If the shape and color of your stool are abnormal, should you see a doctor or adjust your diet?

Hello Dr.
Chen: I would like to ask you about my bowel movements.
I almost always wake up at 6:30 AM and have a bowel movement that takes less than 5 minutes.
Previously, my stools were well-formed and varied in color from black to yellow to brown.
However, over the past year, my stools have often been unformed and more like a puddle.
After flushing the toilet, some residue sticks to the bowl.
Occasionally, I experience diarrhea, but it usually lasts only one day, and the next day I feel fine.
The volume of stool is similar to before, but the odor is stronger, and the color is darker.
Should I see a doctor, or can I just adjust my diet? Thank you!

An, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/03

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, dietary adjustments should certainly be made, including reducing oil, dairy, and刺激 foods, and opting for a light and mild diet.
However, if symptoms have persisted for a year, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chi-Feng Chen, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2015/08/03

More Info

When it comes to unusual stool shape and color, it is important to pay attention to the changes you are experiencing. Based on your description, it seems that you have noticed a significant alteration in your bowel habits over the past year. The fact that your stools are no longer formed and are instead more like a puddle, along with the presence of stickiness in the toilet, could indicate a few potential issues that may warrant further investigation.

Firstly, the consistency of your stool is a crucial indicator of your digestive health. Normal stools are typically well-formed and should not stick to the toilet bowl. The change to a more liquid form, along with occasional diarrhea, suggests that your body may not be absorbing nutrients properly or that there is an underlying gastrointestinal issue. This could be related to dietary changes, stress, infections, or even conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

The color of your stool can also provide valuable information. While variations in stool color can be normal, especially depending on what you eat, persistent changes such as darker stools can sometimes indicate bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract or other issues. Black stools, for example, can be a sign of bleeding from the stomach or esophagus, while very light or clay-colored stools may suggest a problem with bile production or flow.

Given that you have also noted a change in odor, which is often associated with the digestion process and the types of food consumed, it may be worth considering if there have been any significant changes in your diet. Foods high in fat, certain medications, or even infections can lead to foul-smelling stools.

In light of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. While dietary adjustments can certainly help improve bowel health—such as increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, and reducing processed foods—persistent changes in stool consistency, color, and odor should not be ignored. A doctor can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, stool tests, and possibly imaging studies to rule out any serious conditions.

Furthermore, if you experience any additional symptoms such as weight loss, abdominal pain, or blood in your stool, it becomes even more critical to seek medical attention promptly. These could be signs of more serious gastrointestinal disorders that require immediate intervention.

In summary, while some dietary adjustments may help, the changes you are experiencing with your stool are significant enough to warrant a visit to a healthcare provider. They can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment or lifestyle changes to restore your digestive health. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to changes in your body.

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