Flat stool

In past two months, stools have been flat, accompanied by feeling of constipation.  Recent colonoscopy showed no issues (one polyp), but Doc did say one area looked "tight" or narrow.  He did not appear to be concerned.

In past few weeks, ocassionally dull pain in upper to mid right side of ab area--sometimes feel warm or hot, but not always.  Some gas in upper right and mid ab; almost feels like there is something there.  

I also feel like I am always holding/contracting rectum, as if cutting off urine or defecation.  It is as if I let go, I might pass urine.

Are there other causes of flat stools?  Where is stool formed? Do you think I may have gallstones?  Or, am I a headcase, and the contraction is causing some of the symptoms?  How can I relax in this area?  It sometimes feels like I am sitting on something.  

Thanks for the help.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

With a recent colonoscopy being negative, it would be unlikely that any major disease (i.e. cancer) is responsible.  It is also possible that the area of tightness can cause the stools to be flat.  There are some cases of irritable bowel syndrome that can affect stool shape.

A few words on how stool is formed can be found here:
http://www.fruit-eze.com/education/colon/stool.html
and here:
http://www.drmirkin.com/archive/6864.html

If you continue to have symptoms, then gall stones are certainly a possibility.  An abdominal ultrasound would be the most appropriate test to evaluate this.  

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

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.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.

[Jalapenoburn]

I'm having the same issue as the fellow who originated this question. Constipation, As though is if something being held back, flatten stool. Gas, pains in the right abdomen. I noticed this happend after I ate Jalapenos and then went to bed, after I woke up I felt a really worm feeling in my gut as if my gut was being burned by jalapeno. To the bathroom and it all came out.. my intestine has not been the same after that.

How can I fix it. I think i bured the contraction effect on my intestine and its not pushing through the stool. Not its flat and only some stool comes out at one time and it definently look different. Please some advice

T, Thank you.

[tochitwo]

A related discussion, flat stool was started.