Changes in stool shape

[eatrite]

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?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Any changes in stool shape warrants further investigation.  Any type of anatomical abnormality (i.e. polyps or cancer) can lead to the symptoms.  

Less severe causes can indeed include irritable bowel syndrome as well as inflammatory bowel disease.

I would suggest a colonoscopy at this time for a more thorough evaluation.  Discussion of this test can be made with a GI specialist or another opinion.

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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