It can be quite unpleasant dealing with bowel issues. Understanding what is normal and what isn’t can be challenging if you’re unsure of what to look for. Stools come in various shapes and sizes and can change depending on your diet or other factors in your life.
According to M. Nuri Kalkay, a retired gastroenterologist and health blogger, bowel movements vary from person to person based on factors like diet, physical activity, water intake, and medication. Everyone has their own sense of what is regular for their body in terms of frequency and appearance. But what if things change and you notice something unusual in the toilet? We spoke with experts to identify bowel habits that might necessitate a visit to the doctor.
Black and/or tarry stools:
Jeffery M. Nelson, a surgical director, explains that if your poop is black, specifically not just dark brown, it is cause for concern. This could indicate bleeding from an upper gastrointestinal source like the esophagus, stomach, or small bowel. There are exceptions, such as if you’re taking iron supplements or bismuth medication like Pepto Bismol. However, it’s best to consult a doctor if you’re unsure.
Bright red blood in your stools:
The presence of blood on toilet paper, in the water, or streaked in the stools can indicate bleeding from the anal canal or a low rectal source. Nelson states that internal hemorrhoids, anal fissures, rectal polyps, or rectal cancers are possible causes, and it’s important to see a doctor.
Maroon-colored stools:
This color indicates bleeding from the end of the small bowel or the colon. Nelson explains that Diverticulosis and arteriovenous malformations are common causes of this presentation, and it’s advisable to go to the emergency room.
Pale, oily, and foul-smelling stools:
When excess fat is present in the stool, it is known as steatorrhea. This can be seen in conditions like malabsorption syndromes, pancreatic insufficiency, and biliary disease. According to Chris Carrubba, an internal medicine doctor, the presence of steatorrhea indicates difficulties in absorbing fat and can lead to deficiencies in fat-soluble vitamins.
Stools that are different from your typical bowel movements:
If you normally have smooth, long sausage-like stools and they suddenly change in size, it is recommended to consult your doctor, as it could be a sign of an inflammatory condition or infection. Changes in consistency to watery or diarrhea-like stools may indicate irritable bowel syndrome, an infectious cause, or an inflammatory bowel disease.
Watery diarrhea after a camping trip:
This could be due to giardia, a protozoal organism found in freshwater. Drinking contaminated water or consuming uncooked fruits and vegetables washed in contaminated water can lead to giardiasis, which causes abdominal pain and persistent, watery diarrhea. Antimicrobials can be used to treat this issue.
Mucus in the stool:
Peyton Berookim, a gastroenterologist, explains that this is usually a sign of intestinal inflammation and can be seen in inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s. It may also be caused by a bacterial infection or IBS. Mucus accompanied by blood or abdominal pain requires medical attention.
Hard or infrequent stools:
Constipation is usually caused by a lack of fiber in the diet and low water intake. However, it can also be caused by medications, intestinal blockages, or colon cancer. Increasing fiber and water intake can help alleviate constipation, and over-the-counter laxatives are available. If symptoms persist or begin after the age of 50, it is important to seek advice from a gastroenterologist to rule out more serious issues.
Loose, watery, or frequent stools:
Diarrhea after eating bad food or from an infection typically lasts no longer than a week. However, if diarrhea persists for more than two weeks or is accompanied by bleeding, weight loss, or other worrisome symptoms, it could be a sign of other conditions such as lactose intolerance, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, or celiac disease. A gastroenterologist can help determine the cause through blood tests, stool tests, and colonoscopy.
In general, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with your doctor if you have concerns about your bowel movements. Paying attention to your poop may provide valuable insights about your health.