Understanding Changes in Stool: Is It a Sign of Rectal Cancer?
Colon cancer concerns? Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about the issue of stool narrowing caused by rectal cancer. I came across an article that mentioned that alternating between thick and thin stools could indicate the presence of a tumor in the intestines, which made me ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Stool consistency is a nonspecific symptom of colorectal cancer and is not necessarily related to the disease. It is often more associated with the types of food consumed or the amount of fluid intake. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Changes in Stool: Is It a Sign of Rectal Cancer?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights on Bowel Health and Diet
Gastrointestinal issues Hello, doctor. Due to the lockdown caused by the pandemic, since October, I have been experiencing bowel movements 2-3 times a week. The first one is usually normal (Bristol Stool Type 4), while the second one is diarrhea (Bristol Stool Types 5-6). This oc...
Dr. Zhang Kebin Reply:
Hello Mr. Hsiao: You reported that your bowel habits and frequency have been unstable recently, and you are concerned about the risk of cancer? The risk of colorectal cancer is usually associated with age, a diet high in red meat, smoking, a family history of polyps, and a family...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights on Bowel Health and Diet
Understanding Pencil-Shaped Stool: Should You Worry About Rectal Cancer?
Bowel issues Hello doctor, I saw online that finding stool shaped like a pencil could indicate colorectal cancer, and I'm a bit worried. Recently, I've noticed that my stools have been thick at the beginning and tapering to a point about 1 cm at the end, resembling a pe...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Changes in stool patterns are generally considered one of the non-specific symptoms of colorectal cancer. Non-specific, by definition, means that it is not necessarily indicative of cancer. If a recent stool occult blood test came back normal, there is no need to worry exc...[Read More] Understanding Pencil-Shaped Stool: Should You Worry About Rectal Cancer?
Understanding Constipation: How to Ensure Your Bowels Are Healthy
Bowel issues Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my recent X-ray results which showed that I have a lot of retained stool. The doctor prescribed me a laxative (散肚秘), and I took it for two days, but I only had a bowel movement two or three times, and then I stopped taking it. ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: The colon is approximately 150 to 200 centimeters long, so it is unlikely to be free of fecal matter. The issue lies in whether there is constipation or if it has caused symptoms such as bloating or abdominal pain. Abnormal bowel habits are what raise concerns. Furthermore...[Read More] Understanding Constipation: How to Ensure Your Bowels Are Healthy
Understanding Rectal Discomfort: Is It Just Anxiety or Something More?
Is there something unusual about the anus? Could it be a feeling of tenesmus? Hello, doctor. I apologize for bothering you. Since the start of the school year, I have been experiencing gastrointestinal issues. Initially, I had diarrhea every few days, and both traditional and Wes...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Colorectal cancer does not have specific symptoms, but various symptoms can worsen. Your condition seems more like an anal fissure or hemorrhoids, or it could be caused by consuming irritating foods. It is recommended to increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, and flui...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Discomfort: Is It Just Anxiety or Something More?
Understanding Abdominal Pain Around the Belly Button: Causes and Concerns
Pain around the abdominal umbilical region? Pain around the navel area? The doctor would like to ask what this could be. After eating, there is a cramping sensation near the navel, which occurs at a fixed time in the morning after breakfast, around eleven o'clock, when there...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It may just be an abnormality in gastrointestinal motility; further observation is recommended.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain Around the Belly Button: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Constipation and IBS Symptoms Explained
Gastrointestinal issues, bowel problems? Hello, doctor. In September of this year, I traveled to another city and experienced some difficulty using the toilet, resulting in 1-2 days without a bowel movement, which may have led to constipation. After that, I started having bowel m...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It should be a short-term digestive/motility disorder (symptoms lasting over 6 months would be typical of irritable bowel syndrome). A diet low in oil and dairy, along with medication management, should suffice.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Constipation and IBS Symptoms Explained
Understanding Blood-Streaked Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Blood streaks in stool? Hello doctor, I have been very worried because I have noticed red streaks of blood on the surface of my stool in the past few days. The first time, there were blood streaks on the back half of the stool, and the second time, there were streaks all over the...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The likelihood of developing cancer is low; however, a follow-up appointment is recommended to treat the bleeding from the internal and external moles.[Read More] Understanding Blood-Streaked Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Assessing Colorectal Cancer Risk: Family History and Symptoms
I'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that? Hello Doctor, the issue I mentioned last time has not recurred in the past two weeks. However, after asking my family, I found out that my grandfather's brother had colon cancer but recovered after hospitalization when he was in...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There is no objection to starting fecal occult blood testing at age 40 and undergoing a colonoscopy every 5 to 10 years, along with actively pursuing weight loss.[Read More] Assessing Colorectal Cancer Risk: Family History and Symptoms
Understanding Changes in Stool Color: When to Worry About Blood
Bowel issues Hello Doctor, on Saturday after using the restroom, I noticed that the water in the toilet was a deep coffee color with a hint of red, resembling coffee with a bit of red. Could this be a sign of colorectal cancer or other bleeding symptoms? I do not feel any discomf...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Further observation is possible; if concerned, a stool occult blood test can be performed.[Read More] Understanding Changes in Stool Color: When to Worry About Blood
Understanding Sticky, Pasty Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Stool is pasty and sticky? I would like to ask the doctor, every time I use the restroom, my stool is always pasty and sticks to the toilet. The amount of stool is neither too much nor too little. Since my father has a history of colon cancer, I have been undergoing fecal occult ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, A 30-year-old male is experiencing pasty stools that stick to the toilet. This could be a sign of indigestion. It is advisable to avoid greasy foods and to increase the intake of fresh, fiber-rich foods while reducing fried and barbecued items. There is a family history ...[Read More] Understanding Sticky, Pasty Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Blood in Stool: Hemorrhoids vs. Colon Cancer Concerns
Blood streaks in stool and hemorrhoids? Hello doctor, I have severe constipation and mixed hemorrhoids. Half a month ago, I experienced significant bleeding while using the restroom (the blood was dripping and there were clots, but no stool), so I went to see a doctor. An anal ex...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello, Miss Drunk Without Words: It is possible for colorectal cancer and hemorrhoids to coexist. It is recommended that you consult your physician about arranging a colonoscopy. Director Cai Jin-ji of the Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology at Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Hemorrhoids vs. Colon Cancer Concerns
Understanding Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Further Gastrointestinal Evaluation
Localized abdominal pain? Hello Doctor, I have a family history of colorectal cancer. I had a normal colonoscopy two years ago, but in the past few months, I've been experiencing occasional mild cramping in my lower left abdomen, especially after eating spicy food or when I ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can first check for occult blood in the stool. Dietary adjustments should focus on increasing fruits and vegetables, staying hydrated, and incorporating post-meal walks while minimizing prolonged sitting. If necessary, a laxative may be used based on the situation (for exampl...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Further Gastrointestinal Evaluation
Understanding Recent Blood and Mucus in Stool: A Gastroenterology Perspective
Recent issues with blood in stool and mucus? Hello Dr. Chen, I asked a related question on August 12. Since I have cerebral palsy and use a wheelchair, I am unable to exercise regularly. Last time, I mentioned that my bowel habits changed starting at the age of 13, and I often ex...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
A fecal occult blood test can be performed on normal-looking stools (which rules out bleeding from internal hemorrhoids). If there are still concerns, please discuss with your outpatient physician whether further examination is necessary.[Read More] Understanding Recent Blood and Mucus in Stool: A Gastroenterology Perspective
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Rectal bleeding Hello: I occasionally experience constipation, and recently I've felt some pain in my anus during bowel movements. There was blood on the toilet paper when I wiped, but it hasn't occurred again. After using the restroom, I also feel some discomfort in my...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Due to constipation, the likelihood of hemorrhoids or anal fissures bleeding is higher. However, if the bleeding occurs frequently or worsens, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist or a colorectal specialist. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Understanding Bowel Issues: Signs of Constipation, Diarrhea, and More
Bowel-related issues? I have been experiencing frequent constipation or diarrhea, with bowel movements occurring about 2 to 3 times a day. Based on my observations, my stools can be categorized into three types: 1. Normal stool that is shaped like a log but somewhat hard, with a ...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Mr. A-Q, most young people are affected by irritable bowel syndrome. I recommend that you consult a gastroenterologist and arrange for a routine stool examination, which can help address your concerns. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: Signs of Constipation, Diarrhea, and More
Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Symptoms and Concerns
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Hello Doctor: I am the inquirer of #171426. Over the past week, I have suddenly experienced an increase in the frequency of flatulence, possibly exceeding 20 times a day. I notice that my intestines start to move as soon as I begin eating, and I sta...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Flatulence is not a specific symptom of malignant tumors, so there is no need to worry too much. Please pay attention to maintaining a balanced diet and regular bowel movements. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Right Lower Abdomen Mass: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Concerns
Hard mass in the right lower abdomen? Hello, doctor. Over the past year, I have been experiencing bloating, pain, and diarrhea in my lower right abdomen, occurring approximately once every 3-5 months. I have visited several clinics, and they seem to think it is irritable bowel sy...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
A colonoscopy is necessary to confirm the absence of colorectal cancer. A negative fecal occult blood test does not rule out colorectal cancer, so if there are still concerns, it is advisable to discuss them with a physician.[Read More] Understanding Right Lower Abdomen Mass: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Concerns
Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Mass: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Hard mass in the right lower abdomen? Hello, doctor. Over the past year, I have been experiencing bloating, pain, and diarrhea in my lower right abdomen, occurring approximately once every 3-5 months. I have visited several clinics, and they seem to think it is irritable bowel sy...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
A colonoscopy is necessary to confirm the absence of colorectal cancer. A negative fecal occult blood test does not rule out colorectal cancer, so if there are concerns, it is advisable to discuss them with a physician.[Read More] Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Mass: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Understanding Abdominal Pain Before Bowel Movements: Causes and Concerns
Abdominal pain before bowel movement? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing irregular bowel movements for a long time, and it has worsened since I started losing weight this past year. I usually drink at least 2000 cc of water daily, but I only have a bowel movement every three...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is just some irritable bowel syndrome; first, adjust the diet to include more fruits and vegetables and increase physical activity. If necessary, a stool occult blood test can be performed.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain Before Bowel Movements: Causes and Concerns