Pale Stools, Constipation... IBS?

[JoseRodrigo]

Hi, I am a 17 year old male. I've been having problems with consipation for the last few weeks. At first I thought it was because I went on multiple camping trips and I thought these trips knocked off my "schedule". Well I haven't been on a trip in 8 days or so and I'm still feeling constipated and to make matters worse my stool that does come out has been pale colored and very loose. I have an appointment scheduled with my Dr. in a couple weeks but I was hoping somebody might have an idea what's going on? The only other symptoms I have are very slight abdominal pain, id call it more discomfort than anything and it only happens a couple hours after I eat. Other than that everything feels normal and I feel healthy. Oh another thing, I don't exactly eat a very good diet, I calculated my average fiber intake on a daily basis and it's only like 5-7 grams.... I'm working on fixing this. Do you think this could be a reason why I'm having issues and my Stools are pale? Thanks

[MaginDC]

You can try increasing your fiber intake with fiber supplements, which you should be able to buy at the grocery store.  Start by increasing your intake gradually, and be sure to drink plenty of water.  You could have caught a GI bug of some kind, but GI bugs usually cause diarrhea, not constipation.

[HomeChef]

Hi honey. No idea what is going on, but I'm glad you're going to see a doctor.  You mention camping...did all of this start after the camping trips?  You will probably be tested for certain bugs that live out in the woods.  Giardia, for one.   Try not to stress out your stomach right now.  Eat lightly and don't overeat.  Large meals are a one-way ticket to stomach upset.    Hang in there, and let us know what happens at the doctors...