bowel movement changes

For past 6 weeks i have experienced daily loose bowel movements that are very messy and have a very strong odor. Stool was initially black but color is now brown to light brown. Additionally i have very frequent flatuence which also has a distinct strong odor.  I typically have 1-2 bowel movements daily, and they occur with one hour or less of meals.  I have also experienced "leakage" and itching in the rectum 2-3 hours after movement. My doctor has performed a blood cult with a stool sample and test results are pending.  I do not have any digestive nor have I vomited since outset of this issue.  My digestive track does churn and can be heard gurgling but it is not painful and appetite is normal. If blood tests come back negative are there any other potential causes?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

I agree with the stool sample to exclude an infection.

If negative, other causes can include irritable bowel, inflammatory bowel disease, colitis, or more seriously, a mass.

A colonoscopy would be indicated if the symptoms continue.  If the tests remain negative, you can consider treatment for irritable bowel syndrome.  This can include antispasmodic agents, as well as increasing the amount of fiber in the diet.

These options 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, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com