Changes in the bowel habit are characterized by irregularities in the intestinal function and are manifested by imbalances in the defecation of various natures, including incontinence, diarrhea, prolonged constipation, prolonged and intestinal obstruction.
What kind of diseases can be associated with changes in the bowel habit?
Changes in the bowel habit are not always an indication of a malfunction of the organism. In fact, they can be connected with a transient condition that occurs after a change in the eating habits, stress, constipation or gastrointestinal disorders. When the alteration is more severe and long-lasting, with the presence of prolonged diarrhea, blood traces and blocks of defecation is possible that the symptom is one of the following pathologies:
- Amyloidosis
- Diverticulitis
- Colon cancer
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
- Bowel obstruction
- Intestinal polyps
- Scleroderma
- Multiple sclerosis
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Colorectal cancer
- Anal cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Ulcerative colitis
Remember that this is not an exhaustive list and it is highly recommended to consult your doctor, in case of symptom’s persistence.
What is the therapy for changes in the bowel habit?
The momentary imbalances of the intestinal transit can be solved by following a balanced diet, rich in fiber and with abundant moisture. In case of prolonged diarrhea or complete blockage of the bowel movement is necessary timely diagnostic work, including laboratory tests, ultrasound, colonoscopy, X-rays and CAT scan to determine the cause of the problem and indicate the best treatment to the case.
When is most likely to contact your doctor in case of changes in the bowel habit?
A medical attention should be sought in the presence of:
- constipation with a sudden interruption of the passage of stool and gas
- acute abdominal pain
- blood in the stool
- pus in the stool
- bloating
- nausea, vomiting
- small, hard stools (fecal impaction, or coprolites)
- in children – not expelled stool for more than three days
- a sudden weight loss
