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Changes in stool shape
I am a male in my early forties, healthy, non-smoker, non-drinker, eats well. Family has no history of colon cancer or polyps. I have been treated for H-Pylori six years ago.
Two months ago, I began to experience loose stool. My bowel movements were regular (once a day, sometimes two). I also experienced increase in gas. About three weeks ago, my stools began to go back to normal consistency but I noticed there was a change in the shape of the stool. When I pass the stool, the first six inches would be a normal shape but then it would start to taper its shape to a rectangular shape of 1" x 3/8". There is no blood in the stool. I did have an occult blood test and a blood anemia test last week and they both came back negative. I do not have any abdominal discomfort or pain. My doctor also did a digital rectal exam and said everything looks good down there. At this time, my doctor says to hold off with any other diagnostic exams (ie: Barium Enema or colonoscopy) to see if the symtoms change. Would any kind of bacterial infection or Irritable Bowel Syndrome cause this kind of narrowing of the stool? What else could cause narrowing of the stool?
Two months ago, I began to experience loose stool. My bowel movements were regular (once a day, sometimes two). I also experienced increase in gas. About three weeks ago, my stools began to go back to normal consistency but I noticed there was a change in the shape of the stool. When I pass the stool, the first six inches would be a normal shape but then it would start to taper its shape to a rectangular shape of 1" x 3/8". There is no blood in the stool. I did have an occult blood test and a blood anemia test last week and they both came back negative. I do not have any abdominal discomfort or pain. My doctor also did a digital rectal exam and said everything looks good down there. At this time, my doctor says to hold off with any other diagnostic exams (ie: Barium Enema or colonoscopy) to see if the symtoms change. Would any kind of bacterial infection or Irritable Bowel Syndrome cause this kind of narrowing of the stool? What else could cause narrowing of the stool?
My Gi said no, but my hubby is very, very health conscience (diet--works out regularly), but he has a bad back which used to give him trouble all the time. It isn't nearly as ba since he works out regularly, but he says that eveytime his back is out, his BMs are all screwed up.
It is still a good idea to rule out any other serious possibilities first--better to err on the side of safety.
It is still a good idea to rule out any other serious possibilities first--better to err on the side of safety.
I see a urologist next week. However, this GI dr is now changing his tune a little and told my hubby that "maybe" this could all be caused by a fall I had two months ago. Before he said "no".
So...I was wondering, have you had any kind of fall or accident lately where your lower back could be out?
Anyhow, let me know how your colonoscopy turns out.
Also, have you ever had any surgeries before (e.g. appendix or anything in you stomach or pelvic area)??
So...I was wondering, have you had any kind of fall or accident lately where your lower back could be out?
Anyhow, let me know how your colonoscopy turns out.
Also, have you ever had any surgeries before (e.g. appendix or anything in you stomach or pelvic area)??
Glad to hear your colonoscopy was clear. What is next for you? I'll let you know how mine goes.
Had the colonoscopy today--all clear. The prep was a lot worse than the procedure.
They still have not found a cause for this pain I have in my left side or the change in stools. At this point, I am running out of ideas.
Let me know how yours turns out!!
They still have not found a cause for this pain I have in my left side or the change in stools. At this point, I am running out of ideas.
Let me know how yours turns out!!
My stool were smaller in size too. But, now with a clear colonoscopy they are saying IBS or stress? So, I wouldn't get real alarmed at the change in stool size thing. It seems that can be caused by conditions other than colon cancer.
Linda J
Linda J
Did you have your colonoscopy this week?
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