Whether you like to talk about it or not, everyone goes through bouts of bowel issues. And gastrointestinal problems do happen to the best of us. But if your gastrointestinal issues do not subside after substantial time, it can be a sign of something much more serious. Here are a few common and not so common bowel problems that will help you determine when to see the doctor.
A Healthy Movement
As you know, the more pain free, the better when it comes to healthy bowel movements. This means that the passing of the stool is one single piece or a few pieces that are soft and without any or minimal straining. Normal bowel movements vary from person to person. However, runny or hard stools are easily identified as abnormal and most likely experienced by everyone at some point. To have a normal bowel movement means that you are experiencing a movement daily. Consistency and color are neither pale, clay or black and tarry colored. A normal bowel movement should be easy to pass and a brown or golden brown color, similar to peanut butter and relatively solid.
It’s not uncommon to experience colorful stools such as very dark red or green. While this isn’t necessarily normal, it could be the cause of artificial food coloring or eating such colorful red veggies such as beets.
Cause for Concern
Most Americans struggle with irregular bowel movements on a daily basis. This could have an underlying cause that is a health concern such as irritable bowel syndrome or something more severe. If you are experiencing less than normal bowel movements and frequently, you should tell your doctor right away.
Irritable bowel syndrome or IBS happens to the best of us. Many Americans experience IBS and don’t even know they have it. IBS is a chronic disorder that affects the large intestines and can last for years. Signs and symptoms include bloating, constipation, diarrhea, gas, abdominal pain, and more. IBS can also trigger straining due to constipation.
Those who experience hemorrhoid pain may also experience straining and irregular bowel movements. Unfortunately, hemorrhoid pain and painful bowel movements coincide together. If you’re looking for how to relieve hemorrhoid pain, your doctor may prescribe a specific diet and show you tips on how to treat hemorrhoids. More importantly, your doctor may prescribe a hemorrhoid cream to soothe the ache.
Another cause for concern is if you notice red, green, or blood in your stools. While this is a normal occurrence from hemorrhoids, it can be a sign of something serious.
If you’re experiencing irregular stools related to your hemorrhoid pain, maybe it’s time to get a cream that works. Doctor Butler’s hemorrhoid and fissure ointment is proven to be fast acting in relieving pain. With a variety of organic herbs, amino acids and minerals, this FDA approved cream is safe from harmful chemicals and is fragrance-free. Stop by the products page to see why our cream is number one!
About Robert Cutler, D.O.
Dr. Robert Cutler has performed duties as a specialist in the field of Proctology over 30 years as a practicing physician. Over this time, he has had great success integrating patient care from both an efficiency standpoint and as a practical approach to holistic and preventative medicine.
Dr. Cutler also performs FDA approved Clinical Trials and has had formal research training in Human Subject Assurance Training, OHRP/NIH and Good Clinical Practice for Investigators, Quintiles. Dr. Cutler continues to work on creating more affordable solutions to help people who are affected by ano-rectal problems as well as various chronic or acute skin issues.
