Dealing with bowel issues can be unpleasant and confusing if you’re unsure of what is normal. The appearance and consistency of stools can vary depending on factors such as diet, physical activity, hydration, and medication intake. It’s important to establish your own baseline for what is typical for your body. However, there are some signs that indicate a trip to the doctor may be necessary.
If your stool is black, and not just dark brown, it could be a sign of bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Taking iron supplements or bismuth medication can also darken the stool, so it’s best to consult a doctor to be sure. Bright red blood in the stool may indicate bleeding from the anal canal or a low rectal source, which can be caused by conditions like internal hemorrhoids, anal fissures, rectal polyps, or rectal cancers.
Maroon-colored stools that are liquid in consistency and accompanied by a distinct odor may indicate bleeding from the end of the small bowel or the colon. Diverticulosis and arteriovenous malformations are common causes of this presentation and require a visit to the emergency room.
Pale, oily, and foul-smelling stools may be a sign of steatorrhea, which occurs when there is excess fat in the stool. This can be related to conditions such as malabsorption syndromes, pancreatic insufficiency, or biliary disease. It’s important to address this issue as it can lead to deficiencies in fat-soluble vitamins.
If your bowel movements suddenly change in size, consistency, or become watery or diarrhea-like, it is advisable to speak to your doctor. These changes could indicate an inflammatory condition such as Crohn’s disease, an infection, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or an inflammatory bowel disease like ulcerative colitis.
Watery diarrhea after a camping trip may be caused by the ingestion of giardia, a protozoal organism found in freshwater. It is essential to seek treatment with antimicrobials if this occurs. Mucus in the stool is usually a result of intestinal inflammation and can be seen in conditions like ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, bacterial infections, or IBS. If mucus is accompanied by blood or abdominal pain, medical attention is recommended.
Hard or infrequent stools indicate constipation, which is typically caused by a lack of fiber and water intake in the diet. Medications or intestinal blockages can also contribute to constipation, and in rare cases, it may be a symptom of colon cancer. Increasing fiber and water intake, as well as taking over-the-counter laxatives, can help manage constipation. However, if symptoms persist or occur after the age of 50, it is important to consult a gastroenterologist for further evaluation.
Loose, watery, or frequent stools can be a result of eating contaminated food or infections and usually resolve within a week. If diarrhea lasts longer than two weeks or is accompanied by bleeding, weight loss, or disruptive symptoms at night, it may indicate an underlying condition such as lactose intolerance, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, or celiac disease. Gastroenterologists can perform tests to diagnose the cause of diarrhea.
In general, if you have concerns about your bowel movements, it’s best to schedule an appointment with your doctor. Changes in stool can often be a sign of an underlying issue that should be addressed. Listen to what your poop is trying to tell you and seek professional guidance when needed.
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