worried about bowel movements

I am 53 yrs. old. all my bowel movements a just small petals. Hard. It seems I have them often but after I am done and up a while I get a drainage. I have IBS and I had Ischemic colitis once. Now it seems m stomach is always bloated and I feel nauseas. Could you give me any reason for this problem. I have had several colonoscopes. Don't really want to do that if not neccessary. My Grandmother had many problems similar and died in her sixty's from cancer. thanks

[Kevin Pho, MD]

If you have had a recent normal colonoscopy (i.e. within 1 year), it is unlikely that cancer is present.  

A colonoscopy would also ruled out most of the other anatomical causes that can change the stool caliber (i.e. polyps).  

Bloating and nausea would be indicative of an upper GI causes - and this can be evaluated with an upper endoscopy or upper GI series.  

Irritable bowel can lead to a change in bowel habits.  If this is suspected, increasing the fiber in the diet as well as antispasmodic agents can help.  If constipation tends to be predominant, you can consider a trial of the medication Zelnorm.

These options can 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 patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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