Change In Bowel Habit

What is Change in Bowel Habit?

Change in bowel habit signifies any deviation of the typical stool habit. This may involve an increase in or decrease in frequency of passing stool, difficulty in passing stool or changes in the appearance of the stool. It is not specific, but it is one of the symptoms and can be an indication of a underlying problem with the gastrointestinal system that would need to be investigated.

Common Symptoms

Changes in bowel habits can range from mild and brief to persistent and concerning. Typical signs include:

• Sudden onset of diarrhea or constipation
• Having fewer than three bowel movements a week, or more than three a day
• Straining, or feeling like you can't completely empty your bowels
• Presence of mucus or blood in the stool
• Abdominal cramping or pain that eases after a bowel movement
• Bloating or a sense of fullness

Causes

Multiple factors can disrupt your usual bowel pattern, including:

• Dietary shifts, such as increased dairy, fat, or fiber intake
• Gastrointestinal infections from viruses, bacteria, or parasites
• Medications side effects (e.g., pain relievers, antibiotics)
• Travel, changes in daily routine, or elevated stress levels
• Inflammatory disorders of the gut, like IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) or IBD (inflammatory bowel disease)
• Age-related changes slowing digestive motility

Treatment Options for Change In Bowel Habit in Cypress

Treatment includes dietary adjustments, medications, and follow-up care:

• Eating habits: Improve the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and decrease the intake of fatty or highly processed foods.
• Hydration: Consume as much water as possible during the day so as to soften stools and make the bowel movements easy.
• Drugs: Over-the-counter or prescription laxatives can be used in constipation, or antidiarrheals can be taken in case of persistent loose stool as instructed by your doctor.
• Probiotics/supplements: Add probiotics to maintain the healthy intestinal bacteria; consider fiber supplements in case the dietary fiber remains low.
• Diagnostic tests: If the symptoms take longer than two weeks and/or if alert symptoms are present, undergo colonoscopy, blood, or imaging tests.
• Occasionally resetting: Have frequent appointments with your attending gastroenterologist in Cypress to modify your treatment plan and review progress.