A change in bowel habit means your poop pattern has shifted. This could involve how often you go, the appearance of your stool, or how it feels to pass it. You may experience diarrhea, constipation, or both. While most changes are short-term, persistent symptoms warrant a medical evaluation.
Here's what to watch for:
Many factors can lead to changes in your bowel habits:
At GastroDoxs, we specialize in diagnosing and treating changes in bowel habits-whether you’re experiencing intermittent discomfort or chronic issues like IBS and IBD. Our Houston-based team uses the latest diagnostic tools and creates individualized treatment plans, from dietary optimization and probiotics to stress-management techniques and advanced therapies. We're committed to compassionate, patient-centered care that helps you regain comfort and confidence in your digestive health.
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If your symptoms last more than two weeks or you notice blood in your stool, unexplained weight loss, or persistent abdominal pain, schedule an evaluation with a specialist.
Yes. Stress and anxiety can disrupt the brain-gut axis, leading to diarrhea, constipation, or alternating patterns in bowel movements.
In rare cases, long-term changes accompanied by blood in the stool, significant weight loss, or severe pain may be warning signs of colon cancer and warrant prompt medical assessment.
The ICD-10 code for change in bowel habits is R19.4, which clinicians use for diagnosis and billing purposes.
Begin with your primary care physician. If symptoms persist or are severe, you may be referred to a gastroenterologist in Houston for further evaluation.
Any bowel habit change lasting more than two weeks should prompt a medical review to rule out serious underlying conditions.
Probiotics can support healthy gut flora, particularly after antibiotic use or in cases of IBS, though benefits vary by individual and strain.
Adjusting fiber intake, staying well-hydrated, and avoiding trigger foods can improve symptoms, but effectiveness depends on the underlying cause.
Your doctor may order blood work, stool studies, imaging (like CT scans), or a colonoscopy to identify infections, inflammation, or other issues.
Certain drugs (e.g., antibiotics, NSAIDs) can alter gut motility or flora. Always inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you're taking.
