Stool caliber

Hello,

My stools are often normal looking. But I notice sometimes that it's quite thin (narrow), going back to normal after a few bowel movements. It happens often enough that I could notice. As I notice as well it goes back to normal thikness.

I was wondering if it's normal to have variations in the stool caliber.

Thank you very much!

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Any changes in stool caliber needs to be further evaluated to exclude a colonic mass.

The most comprehensive test would be a colonoscopy, and I would advise going forward with this.  

Other causes would include irritable bowel disease or inflammatory bowel disease.

This question should be discussed with your personal physician.

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 patients education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com