the Causes of Thin Stool: When to Seek Medical Advice

Stool becomes thin?

I have been experiencing thin stools for at least a week or two, and I have difficulty passing them.
The stools are yellow, thin, and short.
I often burp, and sometimes the stools are thin while other times they are pellet-like.
I spend a long time in the bathroom, whereas my stools used to be normal and thicker.
What could be the issue? I eat normally, including fruits and vegetables, and I don't have much stress.

Ms. Yu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/06

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

This situation is likely due to the swelling of hemorrhoids.
Prolonged bowel movements can contribute to this condition.
It is recommended to avoid constipation during this period and to shorten the time spent on the toilet; otherwise, it may be difficult to improve the issue of having thinner stools.

Reply Date: 2015/09/06

More Info

Understanding the causes of thin stool can be quite concerning, especially when it persists for an extended period, as you described. Thin or pencil-like stools can indicate various underlying health issues, and it’s essential to pay attention to accompanying symptoms and changes in bowel habits.

Firstly, it’s important to note that the shape and consistency of stool can be influenced by several factors, including diet, hydration, and gastrointestinal health. In your case, the fact that your stool has changed to being thin and you are experiencing difficulty in passing it, along with the presence of hiccups, could suggest a few potential issues.

One common cause of thin stools is a narrowing of the intestinal passage, which can occur due to several reasons. Conditions such as colorectal cancer, benign tumors, or strictures (narrowing of the intestines) can lead to changes in stool shape. While it’s understandable to feel anxious about these possibilities, it’s crucial to remember that not all cases of thin stool are indicative of severe conditions. However, given that you have noticed this change for at least one to two weeks, it is advisable to seek medical attention.

Additionally, other gastrointestinal issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or infections can also lead to changes in stool consistency and shape. Stress and dietary changes can exacerbate these conditions, but you mentioned that you are eating a balanced diet with fruits and vegetables and do not feel stressed, which is a positive sign.

The presence of hiccups could be unrelated, but it’s worth mentioning as it may indicate some gastrointestinal discomfort or issues with digestion. Hiccups can sometimes occur due to irritation of the diaphragm or esophagus, which can be linked to gastrointestinal disturbances.

When seeking medical advice, it is essential to provide your healthcare provider with a comprehensive overview of your symptoms, including the duration of the changes, any other accompanying symptoms (such as abdominal pain, weight loss, or changes in appetite), and your dietary habits. Your doctor may recommend diagnostic tests such as stool analysis, blood tests, or imaging studies like a colonoscopy to assess the health of your gastrointestinal tract.

In summary, while thin stool can be a benign issue, the persistence of this symptom warrants medical evaluation to rule out any serious conditions. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to changes in bowel habits. Early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes if there is an underlying issue. Therefore, I encourage you to schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional to discuss your symptoms in detail and receive appropriate care.

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