What causes irregular bowel movements and what are the symptoms?

What causes irregular bowel movements and what are the symptoms?

Causes of irregular bowel movements can vary, so the diagnosis isn’t always obvious and may require some investigation by a doctor. Here we take a look at what can cause irregular bowel movements. Irritable bowel syndrome: Also known as IBS or spastic colon, this bowel disorder includes abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits.

What causes a person to have a bowel disorder?

The exact cause of a bowel disorder depends on the condition itself. Numerous factors can contribute to the development of bowel disorders. These include: changes in the gut microbiome, such as an overgrowth of harmful microbes lifestyle factors, such as smoking, diet, and exercise levels

What causes a person to have an intestinal obstruction?

Most intestinal obstructions are caused by injuries, previous surgeries, hernias, or in some cases, cancer. Some medications also raise your risk of developing an intestinal obstruction. How are bowel disorders diagnosed? If you’re experiencing symptoms of a bowel disorder, make an appointment with your doctor.

What are the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome: Also known as IBS or spastic colon, this bowel disorder includes abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. It can cause either extreme diarrhea or constipation and is a chronic condition. Irritable bowel syndrome is the most common gastrointestinal disorder.

What causes decreased bowel movements?

Because hypothyroidism causes metabolism to slow down throughout the body, the frequency of bowel movements may also decrease. Unexplained constipation or having bowel movements significantly less often then normal can be a subtle sign of changes in metabolism due to an underactive thyroid.

What is the meaning of change in bowel habits?

A change in bowel habit refers to any variation in a person’s normal pattern of passing stool. Although this typically refers to the frequency of having a bowel movement, it can also extend to the consistency of the stool. For example, a person may suddenly experience very watery stool.

What does it mean to have a bowel movement?

A bowel movement is the excretion of fecal matter (stool) via the anus. This typically occurs in average human once/twice a day, or at least three times a week. Too few bowel movements, or less than average, is generally referred to as constipation.