Flat Stool

I am a 31 year old healthy, athletic male.  2 years ago, I developed what my doctor said was a bit of IBS, with constipation as really the only symptom.  I was having difficulty going and would get the sensation that I had not finished, I also noticed that my stool was a bit flat.  However, with fiber or just over time, I became regular again.  I have two bowel movements a day, very predictable at this point.  I eat a diet high in fiber with lots of water.  I have never had any signs of blood in stool, any cramping or pain.  My bowel movements are predictable, but sometimes if my routine changes or I travel, I may get a bit off of the routine.

All that being said, I feel very good, I just have a concern about the flat stools.  I have followed up with my doctor and he has checked me out and is not overly concerned.  Should I ask for a gastro referral anyway?

thanks

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Changes in diet, as well as irritable bowel syndrome, can result in changes in stool shape - including a flat stool.

That being said, you may also want to exclude anatomic changes, like a mass or polyp.  

If this is suspected, a flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy would be the most comprehensive test to exclude these possibilities.  

This option can be discussed with your personal physician.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin Pho, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com
www.twitter.com/kevinmd