Can hemorrhoids cause ribbon-like stools. How do hemorrhoids affect stool shape and size. What are the common causes of narrow stools. When should you be concerned about thin stools. How are thin stools diagnosed and treated.

The Relationship Between Hemorrhoids and Stool Shape

Hemorrhoids, a common condition affecting millions worldwide, can indeed influence the shape and size of stools. While not all cases of narrow or ribbon-like stools are caused by hemorrhoids, this condition can be a contributing factor. Understanding the connection between hemorrhoids and stool shape is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How Hemorrhoids Affect Stool Formation

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectal area that can interfere with normal bowel movements. They may cause:

• Partial obstruction of the anal canal
• Changes in stool consistency due to associated bleeding
• Alterations in the muscle contractions of the anus and rectum

These factors can lead to the formation of thin or ribbon-like stools as they pass through the affected area.

Common Causes of Narrow Stools Beyond Hemorrhoids

While hemorrhoids can cause thin stools, they are not the only potential culprit. Other causes include:

1. Constipation
2. Colorectal cancer
3. Anal cancer
4. Fecal impaction
5. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
6. Dietary changes
7. Certain medications

It’s essential to consider these alternatives when experiencing persistent changes in stool shape.

Constipation and Its Impact on Stool Shape

Constipation is a leading cause of narrow stools. When fecal matter becomes hard and difficult to pass, it can result in thin, ribbon-like stools. Increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, and regular physical activity can help alleviate constipation-related stool changes.

Types of Hemorrhoids and Their Symptoms

Hemorrhoids are classified into three main types:

• External hemorrhoids
• Internal hemorrhoids
• Thrombosed hemorrhoids

Each type presents different symptoms and may affect stool shape differently.

External Hemorrhoids

External hemorrhoids develop under the skin around the anus. They often cause:

• Itching or irritation in the anal area
• Swelling around the anus
• Pain or discomfort during bowel movements
• Bleeding

These symptoms can indirectly lead to changes in stool shape as a person may strain or alter their bowel habits to avoid discomfort.

Internal Hemorrhoids

Internal hemorrhoids occur inside the rectum and are typically painless. They may cause:

• Painless bleeding during bowel movements
• Prolapse or protrusion through the anus
• Mucus discharge

Severe internal hemorrhoids can partially obstruct the anal canal, potentially leading to thin stools.

Thrombosed Hemorrhoids

Thrombosed hemorrhoids occur when a blood clot forms within an external hemorrhoid. They can cause:

• Severe pain and swelling
• A hard lump near the anus
• Difficulty with bowel movements

The intense pain associated with thrombosed hemorrhoids can significantly alter bowel habits and stool shape.

Diagnosing the Cause of Thin Stools

If you experience persistent thin or ribbon-like stools, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional. Diagnosis may involve:

• Physical examination, including a digital rectal exam
• Stool sample analysis
• Imaging tests such as CT scans or MRI
• Endoscopic procedures like colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy

These diagnostic tools help determine whether hemorrhoids or other conditions are causing the change in stool shape.

The Importance of Colonoscopy in Diagnosing Thin Stools

A colonoscopy is a crucial diagnostic tool for evaluating the entire colon and rectum. It can detect:

• Hemorrhoids
• Polyps
• Tumors
• Inflammatory conditions

This procedure is especially important when thin stools persist or are accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

Treatment Options for Hemorrhoid-Related Thin Stools

Treating hemorrhoids can often resolve associated stool shape changes. Treatment options include:

1. Dietary modifications to increase fiber intake
2. Over-the-counter creams and ointments
3. Sitz baths
4. Prescription medications
5. Minimally invasive procedures like rubber band ligation
6. Surgical interventions for severe cases

The appropriate treatment depends on the severity of the hemorrhoids and associated symptoms.

Lifestyle Changes to Manage Hemorrhoids and Improve Stool Consistency

Simple lifestyle modifications can significantly improve hemorrhoid symptoms and stool consistency:

• Increasing water intake
• Adding more fiber-rich foods to your diet
• Regular exercise
• Avoiding prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet
• Using a squatting position during bowel movements

These changes can help prevent constipation and reduce strain during bowel movements, potentially resolving thin stool issues.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Thin Stools

While occasional changes in stool shape are normal, persistent thin or ribbon-like stools warrant medical attention. Seek medical care if you experience:

• Thin stools lasting more than a week
• Blood in the stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Severe abdominal pain
• Changes in bowel habits

Early intervention can lead to better outcomes, especially if the cause is more serious than hemorrhoids.

Red Flags: Symptoms That Require Immediate Medical Attention

Certain symptoms accompanying thin stools require urgent medical evaluation:

• Severe rectal bleeding
• Persistent abdominal pain
• Fever associated with abdominal symptoms
• Rapid onset of thin stools with other systemic symptoms

These symptoms could indicate more severe conditions that need prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Preventing Hemorrhoids and Maintaining Healthy Bowel Function

Preventing hemorrhoids is key to avoiding associated complications like thin stools. Preventive measures include:

1. Maintaining a high-fiber diet
2. Staying well-hydrated
3. Regular physical activity
4. Avoiding straining during bowel movements
5. Promptly responding to the urge to defecate
6. Managing underlying conditions like chronic constipation

By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing hemorrhoids and associated stool changes.

The Role of Diet in Preventing Hemorrhoids and Thin Stools

A balanced diet plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy bowel function and preventing hemorrhoids. Key dietary recommendations include:

• Consuming at least 25-30 grams of fiber daily
• Incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Limiting processed foods and excessive red meat consumption
• Avoiding foods that may cause constipation or diarrhea

A nutrient-rich diet not only helps prevent hemorrhoids but also promotes overall digestive health.

Understanding the Link Between Stress and Hemorrhoids

Stress can exacerbate hemorrhoid symptoms and contribute to changes in bowel habits. The stress-hemorrhoid connection involves:

• Increased muscle tension in the anal area
• Changes in dietary habits during stressful periods
• Altered bowel patterns due to stress-induced hormonal changes
• Neglect of healthy habits during high-stress times

Managing stress through relaxation techniques, regular exercise, and adequate sleep can help reduce the risk of hemorrhoid-related complications.

Stress Management Techniques for Hemorrhoid Prevention

Implementing stress management strategies can significantly impact hemorrhoid prevention and overall digestive health. Effective techniques include:

1. Mindfulness meditation
2. Deep breathing exercises
3. Regular physical activity
4. Adequate sleep hygiene
5. Time management and prioritization
6. Seeking support from friends, family, or professionals

By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can reduce stress-related exacerbations of hemorrhoids and maintain healthier bowel function.

Understanding the relationship between hemorrhoids and thin stools is crucial for maintaining digestive health. While hemorrhoids can indeed cause ribbon-like stools, it’s important to consider other potential causes and seek medical attention when necessary. By implementing preventive measures, managing stress, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can reduce the risk of hemorrhoids and associated complications. Remember, persistent changes in stool shape or other concerning symptoms should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

Are Hemorrhoids To Blame For Thin Stools?

Content

• Overview
• Causes of narrow stool
• Can hemorrhoids cause thin stools?
• Can hemorrhoids cause pencil-thin stools?
• What is the normal stool size?
• Alternative possible explanations for narrow stools
• What medications can cause thin stools?
• How to treat thin stools
• When to see a doctor about a narrow stool
• The lowdown

Despite the associated discomfort, doctors recommend checking your stool’s appearance once in a while. Often, such awareness can help you address severe health conditions as early as possible.

Stools can have different characteristics — narrow, watery, hard, lumpy, etc. What does it mean if your stool is thin? Can hemorrhoids cause thin stools?

Addressing your hemorrhoid concerns early on can avoid further harm and health concerns such as narrow stool. Besides affecting your bowel movements, hemorrhoids can cause pencil-thin stool. Check out this article on how you can experience thin stools due to hemorrhoids. 

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Narrow-diameter stools mostly occur due to a change in bowel movements. Bowel movement changes can be harmless, resulting from temporary infections or low-fiber diets. Pencil-thin stool can also indicate other underlying conditions, such as colorectal cancer, hemorrhoids, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), etc. Common causes of narrow stools include:

Constipation

Constipation can be the main cause of thin stool. You can avoid constipation by increasing your fiber intake and physical activity. 

Colorectal cancer

Though not common, narrow stools could also point to colorectal cancer. However, this cancer will most likely be accompanied by other symptoms. Speak with your doctor for further testing.

Anal cancer

This rare form of cancer can cause thin stools caused by HPV (human papillomavirus). Common symptoms include feeling bloated and bleeding from the rectum. 

Fecal impaction

Though similar to constipation, fecal impaction is when a lump of dry stool gets stuck in the rectum and blocks the ability of stool to pass normally. The blockage then causes narrow stools to pass. 

Yes, hemorrhoids can cause narrow stools. Hemorrhoids can develop from several causes, including:

• Strain during bowel movements

• Sitting for prolonged periods on the toilet

• Constipation or chronic diarrhea

• Eating low-fiber diets

• Regular heavy-weight lifting

• Being obese

• Being pregnant

In most cases, hemorrhoids can result from increased pressure in the abdomen. 

Hemorrhoids exist in different categories, including internal and external hemorrhoids. Understanding the symptoms of each can help you seek effective solutions. 

External hemorrhoids are generally characterized by constant itching or irritation around the anus. Other symptoms may include swelling or bleeding. 

On the other hand, as the name suggests, internal hemorrhoids develop within the rectum. It is almost impossible to see or feel internal hemorrhoids. Surprisingly, internal hemorrhoids don’t cause as much discomfort as external hemorrhoids.

However, if you strain when having bowel movements, you may experience painless bleeding. Other signs include blood-stained tissue paper after wiping. 

It is also possible to have thrombosed hemorrhoids. These are when clots form inside hemorrhoids, resulting in swelling, inflammation, severe pain, and a hard lump lodged next to the anus. 

Hemorrhoids — whether internal, external or thrombosed — can affect the shape of your stool. However, this will depend on the severity of the hemorrhoids. Not surprisingly, it is possible to have hemorrhoids without any changes to the shape and size of your stool.  

It is easy to assume that thin stool directly points to hemorrhoids. While there is some truth to this, not every instance of unevenly sized stool automatically points to hemorrhoids. 

There is no normal stool size since people are different, meaning bowel movements also differ.  Do you suspect narrow stools from hemorrhoids? Instead of checking for “normal,” look for a change. If you’ve had consistent stool sizes over time but notice a drastic change, this could point to an underlying issue — possibly hemorrhoids. 

Visit your doctor immediately if you notice pencil-thin stools. Depending on the symptoms, the most common diagnosis would be hemorrhoids. Unfortunately, hemorrhoids may not always be the cause of thin stools.

The doctor will conduct several tests to help determine the cause of thin stools and related symptoms. These tests will depend on the symptoms present. They include:

• Sigmoidoscopy if there is a need to examine the large intestine or lower part of the colon

• Colonoscopy to examine the colon

• Digital rectal examination to examine the rectum.

• Blood tests to check for anemia that can point to internal bleeding

Based on the outcome of these tests, possible alternative explanations for pencil-thin stools may be:

1. Obstruction/narrowing of the colon due to colon cancer

2. Irritable bowel symptom, which affects stool size and consistency 

Thin stools can result from medications that slow down the intestines’ movements. They can lead to constipation and fecal impaction, resulting in thin stools. Medications that can cause such effects to include:

• Antidiarrheal medications are taken too often

• Anticholinergics, such as oxybutynin

• Opioid pain medications, such as hydrocodone and morphine. 

There are no dedicated treatment solutions for thin stools. However, treating the underlying conditions can help return things to normal. To treat constipation, increase your fiber intake and stay hydrated. 

Colorectal cancer treatment can vary depending on how advanced the cancer is. Doctors can recommend surgery, followed by radiation or chemotherapy, or both. 

In the case of fecal impaction, treatment is manual, where your healthcare provider will use a gloved, well-lubricated hand to insert one or two fingers in the rectum and break down the stool for easy removal. They may also use interventions such as suppositories or enemas. 

If you notice narrow stools accompanied by pain in the anus, you may have hemorrhoids and should seek medical attention. To avoid making assumptions, check with your doctor if you notice any changes in your stool’s appearance, such as pencil-thin stool.

Visit your doctor immediately if the bowel changes are accompanied by severe abdominal pain and rectal bleeding. 

Hemorrhoids can cause pencil-thin stools. While this is a common diagnosis, you should see your doctor if the problem persists and is accompanied by symptoms such as rectal bleeding, pain, and discomfort. Ensure you eat a fiber-rich diet, hydrate well, and exercise regularly, as this will help prevent the development of hemorrhoids.

More importantly, seek immediate medical attention in case of changes in your bowel movement appearance or blood in the stool.

a Comparison » Scary Symptoms

Can flat or ribbon shaped stools differ in appearance from between hemorrhoids and colon cancer? Are there other distinguishing metrics?

Colon cancer can cause bowel movements to come out flat or ribbon shaped. But so can hemorrhoids.

What should you do if you begin seeing flat or ribbon-like poops when you’ve been diagnosed previously with hemorrhoids?

This question is especially vexing if you have no other symptoms that are caused by colon cancer such as visible blood in your BMs, constipation, abdominal pain and unexplained fatigue.

“Whatever lesion is constricting the lowest part of the passageway can imprint the final shape of the stool,” says Joseph Weiss, MD, board certified gastroenterologist and clinical professor of medicine at the Medical School, University of California, San Diego.

“Cancer of the rectum typically continues to progressively narrow the caliber of the stool to pencil diameter before it completely obstructs the passage.

“Benign strictures and scarring from previous surgery, inflammation, radiation, anal cancer, large anal warts, hemorrhoids and scar tissue from anorectal surgery can lead to misshapen and flattened ribbon-like stool.

“The change in shape by itself cannot identify if the source is benign or malignant.

“That change in shape is an alarm warning that an internal examination is warranted.

“Even the gloved finger of an experienced proctologist or gastroenterologist cannot definitively determine the nature of a lesion by palpation.”

It’s impossible to tell the difference, either by staring into the toilet bowl or by examining your poops on a paper plate under a bright light, if the flat or ribbon shape was caused by colon cancer or your hemorrhoids.

Even a physician can’t tell by just looking at the shape.

False Sense of Security

Dr. Weiss explains, “The presence of known prolapsed hemorrhoids may give the false sense of assurance that the cause is benign.

“The presence of hemorrhoids does not reduce the risk of colorectal or anal cancer, and may increase the risk by delaying diagnosis with the incorrect presumption that the hemorrhoids are the source of stool shape change, blood, mucus, etc.

“While going to the doctor for an anorectal examination or procedure is not a favorite activity, delaying and suffering the consequences of advanced cancer is a tragedy that could and should be avoided.

“The American Cancer Society had a pointed message about screening and examinations for colorectal cancer: Don’t die of embarrassment!”

Dr. Weiss is the author of Got Guts! A Guide to Prevent and Beat Colon Cancer. He has also presented numerous presentations on various health topics.

Lorra Garrick has been covering medical, fitness and cybersecurity topics for many years, having written thousands of articles for print magazines and websites, including as a ghostwriter. She’s also a former ACE-certified personal trainer.  

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Top image: NCI

color, consistency, pathologies and complications

At the appointment with the proctologist, patients often complain that their stool changes almost every day. Diarrhea replaces constipation, mucus and blood secretions appear, and pus often joins them. The structure and shape of feces with hemorrhoids can really be different and signal the disease.

In order to correctly assess the situation and not panic ahead of time, assuming the presence of the most dangerous diseases, find out in more detail what feces are typical for hemorrhoids and what needs to be done to restore it.

Why the nature of the stool changes with hemorrhoids

Symptoms of hemorrhoids differ at different stages. Starting with mild itching and burning in the anorectal region, it can lead to difficulty defecation, constipation or diarrhea, increased pain and bleeding.

Changes in color, shape and consistency of feces, which depend on the form of hemorrhoids – internal, external or combined, and the size of hemorrhoids.

Internal nodes strongly influence the nature of stool. Due to the narrowing of the lumens of the rectum, the shape of the feces becomes ribbon-like – thin and long.

Although these feces are not necessarily indicative of hemorrhoids, they may be signs of problems with the pancreas or gastrointestinal tract.

Too hard stools caused by prolonged constipation. When remembering a painful procedure, the patient puts off going to the toilet. Constipation becomes chronic, and the feces, when released, severely injure the resulting bumps.

Loose stools are associated with a risk of infection in open wounds in anal fissures and open wounds. And it also injures the inflamed nodes.

Any deviation from the norm in the stool should alert and make you turn to a proctologist.

The norm is:

• the shape of feces is cylindrical, quite dense, but soft;
• color – from light to dark brown;
• diameter – from 20 to 50 mm;
• there are characteristic constrictions on the surface as a result of movement along the intestinal lumen;
• emptying – at least 1 time per day:
• in the absence of constipation or diarrhea – 1 time in 48 hours is also the norm, as well as 2-3 times a day;
• feces come out freely and softly without pushing.

Once the cause of color, shape and consistency disturbances has been identified by microscopic examination, treatment can be started quickly.

Read also: What does fecal analysis show for scatology?

Hemorrhoid stool color

Normal stool color is brown, with varying shades from light to dark.

Sometimes the stool changes color and becomes white, red, yellow and even black. In this case, we are not necessarily talking about pathology, for example:

• potato and rice dishes make them lighter;
• Tomatoes and beets add a hint of red;
• activated carbon changes color to black.

But if you haven’t eaten such foods or taken medication, you should be wary.

Faeces may be yellow in color associated with diarrhea or red if blood is present.

Blood in the stool is one of the first signs of hemorrhoids, and not only that. Therefore, even in the absence of such secretions, an occult blood test is prescribed.

A doctor will help to determine the pathology with a thorough examination, using different types of diagnostics.

How neglected hemorrhoids is connected:

• with the amount of blood in the feces, its abundance;
• saturation and hue;
• the presence or absence of blood clots.

In hemorrhoids, the stool passes through the intestines, damaging the inflamed hemorrhoids, causing first a small, and then more and more heavy bleeding.

Shades of blood vary:

• scarlet
• dark;
• black, often with mucus or pus.

They are evidence of various problems and diseases, appear alternately at different stages, depend on the location of hemorrhoids or other neoplasms in the intestine.

Scarlet color of blood

If there are no blood clots and mucus, then the scarlet color is usually associated with the initial stage of hemorrhoids, which are most easily diagnosed and treated with timely contact with a proctologist and professionally prescribed treatment.

The shade of scarlet depends on the location of the nodes: the closer they are to the anus, the brighter it becomes.

Special attention should be paid to the intensity of blood flow. Daily blood loss can cause:

• anemia;
• risk of infection of open wounds;
• thrombosis of hemorrhoidal veins.

Scarlet blood is also associated with the formation of anal fissures, which at this stage are also easy to cure on their own, using special anti-inflammatory and wound healing ointments.

Dark color of blood

If the blood darkens, inflammatory processes intensify, hemorrhoids pass to the next stage. The nodes increase, their walls become thinner, more often injured. Thrombi are formed, the work of the abdominal organs is disrupted, as the outflow of venous blood and the rate of metabolic processes slow down.

The darker the blood, the more neglected hemorrhoids are, the more difficult it is to treat.

Black color and blood clots in the stool

Black feces with a tar-like consistency is evidence of severe inflammatory processes and intestinal injuries. This color is due to the formation of hematin, a substance formed as a result of a long stay of blood in the intestine and the development of a bacterial infection. Most often associated with:

• stomach or duodenal ulcer;
• other serious injuries of the upper intestine.

The presence of such symptoms requires immediate hospitalization and treatment in a hospital setting.

Blood clots in the stool are the result of heavy internal bleeding, in which not all the blood comes out. Part of it folds and comes out in the form of lumps in the feces during subsequent emptying.

In addition to hemorrhoids, may be associated with:

• oncological diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• developed anemia;
• erosions and ulcers in any part of the gastrointestinal tract.

Blood-clotted feces require urgent diagnosis for comorbidities.

Mucus in the stool

Occurs early in the disease and is accompanied by pain, itching, burning sensation in the anorectal region, constipation or diarrhea.

Mucus does not normally mix with faeces. If they are solid, it looks like pieces of inclusions, and if liquid, then in the form of a homogeneous substance on the surface.

Mucus is a sign of other diseases of the small or large intestines.

You can’t treat yourself, because you have to diagnose the problem first. This can only be done by a proctologist by prescribing appropriate tests, and, if necessary, instrumental diagnostics of the intestine.

The shape and size of feces in case of hemorrhoids

During hemorrhoids, not only the color of feces changes, but also their shape, consistency and size. It depends on the type of disease, the quality and time of food processing, the duration of its stay in the intestine.

Bristol Stool Shapes

The Bristol Stool Shape Scale (often simply Bristol Scale) was first published in 1997 by Ken W. Heaton, a doctor at the University of Bristol, UK. It is a classification evaluation scale of human feces, is an important diagnostic tool in identifying pathologies not only of the gastrointestinal tract, but also of other organs.

Bristol Stool Form Scale

The original aim is to facilitate dialogue between the doctor and his patient. Indeed, in most cases, the latter needs to explain the nature of their feces, their color, shape, consistency, and much more, which causes false shame and embarrassment.

The scale greatly simplifies the situation, as it is a table with pictures and interpretation. The patient only needs to point to the one that corresponds to his situation. It’s enough.

According to the table, there are 7 types of faeces. Their color, shape, texture, smell, content of mucus, blood, undigested food residues in them depends on how long they have been in the rectum and large intestine. The appearance of feces, along with other diagnostic methods, allows you to identify the pathology of the digestive system and evaluate the work of the intestine.

At the same time, types 1 and 2 indicate constipation and difficulty with emptying, 3 and 4 are considered normal, especially the last one, 6 and 7 indicate diarrhea. The most dangerous is 7. The similar nature of feces is evidence of dangerous diseases.

More detailed characteristics by type

Type 1 – sheep

Separate hard lumps, have the form of a small nut with a diameter of 10 to 20 mm. Received the apt name of the sheep. Caused by constipation associated with dysbacteriosis, often acute, with prolonged use of drugs with antibiotics, as well as with a low-carbohydrate diet.

Painful sensations not only during bowel movements, but also during movement through the intestines, as they are hard and prickly.

Anal fissures and bleeding appear.

Beneficial microflora is disturbed. Bacteria that retain water in the feces, due to which they have a soft texture and a certain cylindrical shape, become less

2 type – sausage-like smooth

The shape of a tight wide sausage with a smooth surface, 30-40 mm in diameter. Difficulties in passing through the anus, since its diameter is larger than the diameter of the anus. It is considered the most traumatic. Causes hemorrhoids, diverticulosis, anal fissures and bleeding.

Such feces contain many bacteria of various kinds, fibers and undigested food residues.

Feces of this kind can form in the intestines for weeks, causing persistent constipation, often caused by fear of going to the toilet due to severe pain in the perineal region due to hemorrhoids or fissures.

Huge fecal masses press, causing irritable bowel syndrome, obstruction of its thin section, mild flatulence.

Taking a laxative is dangerous, it can cause injury to the intestines, up to obstruction and perforation, as a result of which feces enter the abdominal organs.

3 type – sausage-like uneven

Smaller diameter, from 20 to 35 mm. There are cracks on the surface. It has characteristics similar to type 2, but indicates a latent form of constipation. Fecal masses are formed much faster, which causes even daily emptying. But the process is associated with difficulties, strong straining. This leads to cracks in the anus and hemorrhoids.

Indicates irritable bowel syndrome, dysbacteriosis, other digestive problems.

Type 4 – soft, serpentine, smooth, long

Considered the most correct form, provided that emptying occurs once a day. In diameter – 10-20 mm, which depends on the time of formation in the intestine and the number of fibers in it.

Type 5 – ideal, soft small balls of even shape

Usually appears after each meal, easily leaves the intestines, no more than 15 mm in diameter. Defecation can occur 2-3 times a day.

Type 6 – soft, unshaped, uneven edges

The shape of such a stool does not yet indicate diarrhea, but the patient’s condition is already close to it. Fluffy lumps with torn edges – this is how the Bristol scale characterizes it. The causes may be:

• taking a laxative supplemented with minerals
• use of spices;
• large amounts of liquid, especially water;
• hypertension, high blood pressure:
• intestinal hyperactivity, high rate of digestion;
• excess potassium compounds in the body;
• dehydration, as a result of which water from the plasma begins to enter the intestinal lumen.

Loose stools should be identified to avoid problems in the future.

Type 6 is considered by proctologists to be the most comfortable due to the ability to control urges.

Type 7 – thin, watery, no solids

This is a real diarrhea that requires immediate medical attention and is associated with many causes:

• fungal and other infections in the body;
• food poisoning;
• allergic reactions;
• helminthiasis;
• stresses and neuroses;
• liver diseases or how much;
• disorders in the work of the gastrointestinal tract;
• eating disorders.

Typical for newborns and children under 1 year old, for adults after a serious illness during the recovery period.

The Bristol scale is very useful for self-diagnosis. Looking once again at the contents of the toilet, you can immediately see that some processes are taking place in the body that require, for example, changing the diet and lifestyle, contacting a proctologist, undergoing an examination and starting treatment.

It will not be possible to make a diagnosis on such a scale on your own, since other indicators of feces are also important – their color, buoyancy, possible inclusions, and much more.

But it is recommended to print and hang such a picture in the toilet, especially if problems with the chair have already been noticed earlier.

Hemorrhoids thin ribbon-like stools

Hemorrhoids thin stools are most often caused by internal hemorrhoids or polyps. Because of them, feces, reaching the rectum, cannot move further in full due to the fact that the lumen is narrowed.

Most often, narrow stool is the first thing that patients with the initial stage of hemorrhoids pay attention to. Light burning and itching, slight pain and a feeling of heaviness, they most often associate with the usual process of defecation and do not pay any attention to such symptoms.

Other names for such feces are ribbon, pencil. Thin feces can be a sign not only of hemorrhoids, but also in other diseases, such as rectal cancer, since the formation of polyps precedes this, as well as:

• helminthic invasion;
• colitis;
• irritable bowel syndrome;
• spasms of the sphincter of the rectum;
• lack of fluid in the body.

Band-like stools with blood may be:

• during pregnancy in women as a result of uterine pressure on the rectum and exacerbation of hemorrhoids;
• for prostatitis in men due to enlargement of the prostate and narrowing of the intestinal lumen.

Accompanied by:

• false urge to defecate;
• feeling of fullness of the intestines after emptying;
• sensation of a foreign body in the perineum.

With persistent constipation and external hemorrhoids, the stool may resemble a pear and be characterized by excessive dryness, up to the point that it breaks up into crumbs.

In any case, after watching the bowel movements for a while and seeing that they resemble a pencil, you need to go to a proctologist. The sooner you contact a specialist, the sooner you diagnose the pathology and start treatment.

And beforehand, you can change the diet, balance it, eat often, in small portions, do not exclude the intake of liquid meals. Give up bad habits (smoking and alcohol), drink plenty of fluids, try not to be nervous.

Under what pathologies does the shape of feces change

Symptoms of hemorrhoids and other pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract, up to rectal cancer, largely repeat each other. Therein lies a serious danger.

That is why it is necessary to take tests and diagnose carefully and on time.

There are also distinctive features:

1. Blood discharge. If it is hemorrhoids, then the blood does not mix with the feces, it is on the surface in the form of clots, drops or a thin stream. Occurs most often at the end of a bowel movement, simply remaining in the form of drops on the toilet. With oncology, dark or black blood is released. And it is in the feces themselves.
2. Mucus discharge. If it is rectal cancer, mucus may appear before going to the toilet, sometimes with an unpleasant odor and pus. When the tumor is already disintegrating, then tissue fragments also join the mucus. With hemorrhoids, mucus is found on the surface of the feces. It does not contain purulent impurities, it does not smell.

   Find out more: What other discharges are there for hemorrhoids?

3. Locks . During hemorrhoids, although there are problems with stools, constipation lasts no more than 2-3 days. With other diseases, they can reach a week or more.
4. Ribbon cal. In the ribbon-like form of the oncological process, as the tumor grows, it more and more covers the intestinal lumen. Therefore, faeces can come out in a ribbon much less than 1 cm in diameter.
5. Intoxication of the body. It arises and intensifies as the oncology progresses, causing metastases and changing the functions of all internal organs. Metabolic processes are disturbed, a person quickly loses weight, he is constantly sick, his temperature rises, he feels general weakness and malaise. In women, a fistula forms in the lumen between the intestines, the vagina, and the urethra. As a result, feces can be passed out in the urine.

Even with the appearance of thin feces, which is the first sign of hemorrhoids, treatment should be started in order not to start the disease and prevent the degeneration of a benign formation into a malignant one.

Changes in feces after removal of hemorrhoids

A few days after removal of hemorrhoids, the patient may feel unpleasant symptoms associated with the appearance of wounds and scars.

Changes in stool, its consistency and frequency of bowel movements. Feces can come out in a ribbon, and constipation or diarrhea can bring many unpleasant minutes associated with:

• sharp cutting pains in the abdomen;
• violation of intestinal motility;
• spasms of its main departments;
• divergence of seams due to rather dense feces;
• purulent inflammatory processes as a result of injury to inflamed mucosal tissues;
• fecal incontinence due to weakening of the sphincter muscles after surgery.

The most important thing at this time is to follow a diet in order to restore the functioning of the intestines and free it from unnecessary stress, normalize the shape and structure of feces.

Basic rules of the diet:

• For the first few days, drink more water to soften the stool, eat only liquid broths or other liquid foods:
• when using juices, they should be diluted with water;
• dishes should contain a minimum of salt, and especially spices;
• maintain a balance in the use of fruits, vegetables, vegetable oils and sour milk. Otherwise, you can get diarrhea.
• exclude dangerous and harmful products;
• eat often, but in small portions, without burdening the intestines.

Cope with flatulence will help:

• chamomile tea;
• decoction of parsley seeds;
• activated carbon.

The diet should be aimed at normalizing stools, eliminating diarrhea or constipation, softening feces for their unhindered exit.

Doctor prescribes mild laxatives if constipation does occur. It is strictly forbidden to take drugs on your own, as they may be too aggressive for the rehabilitation period.

How to normalize stool? Ways to soften feces for hemorrhoids

To effectively deal with hemorrhoids, the use of medications alone is not enough. It is necessary to normalize digestion, adjust the stool, improve peristalsis, eliminate constipation.

With hemorrhoids, it is quite possible to do this, you just need to change the diet. It should be not only gentle, but also balanced.

Recommended diet for hemorrhoids

Especially in the acute period, it is very important to follow a diet that includes several basic principles:

1. Vegetable products are the basis of nutrition. These are vegetables, fruits, herbs.
2. Include more dairy products and cereals rich in fiber, but not coarse.
3. Cooking porridge – only on water. Do not add sugar, salt, oil. You can improve the taste with the help of mild spices or spices.
4. Milk should be excluded from the diet in any form.
5. Meals are frequent, but little by little, fractionally.
6. Preferably steam or simply boil food.
7. Exclude fatty, fried, smoked, marinades, pickles.
8. Drink plenty of plain water.
9. A glass of mineral water will help reduce your appetite in case of hunger.
10. Temporarily exclude mushrooms, peas, beans, pearl barley from the diet, as it is difficult to digest.
11. In case of constipation, refuse rice cereal.
12. Avoid strong tea and coffee, spirits, sweet soda.
13. During constipation, drink kefir with the addition of bran and eat dried fruits.

The list of prohibited foods with coarse vegetable fibers includes:

• wheat, oat, wheat bran and whole grains;
• legumes;
• nut kernels and seeds;
• potatoes with skins;
• squash, zucchini, cauliflower, celery dishes;
• fruits and berries: avocados, bananas, apples, grapes, pears

Moderate exercise is very important during this period. Walk more, swim, perform special complexes developed by the proctologist. This will help restore the entire body as a whole, as metabolic processes and blood supply will improve.

During constipation, in consultation with the doctor, take mild laxatives, preferably herbal. It can be Duphalac or Senadexin, Regulax.

Herbal laxatives

In case of diarrhea, Smecta or Imodium are suitable. But again, after a doctor’s prescription.

The structure and shape of feces in hemorrhoids is very important. Therefore, it is worth contacting a specialist in order not only to fix the chair, but to diagnose in time, start professional treatment and protect yourself from the risk of complications and intestinal cancer.

Thin feces in hemorrhoids – causes and concomitant diseases.

Why do I have thin stools with hemorrhoids? Hemorrhoids are currently a disease of most people of working age. In some, the disease manifests itself with minor symptoms, in others, the severity of uncomfortable sensations reaches such an extent that it significantly disrupts the usual way of life. Hemorrhoids are manifested by pain, burning inside the rectum and a number of other unpleasant symptoms.

Pathology can also be indicated by the shape of the stool – with the expansion of the veins and the appearance of hemorrhoids, it becomes thin. Sometimes it is this symptom that worries a person the most and this forces him to see a doctor. Why does the stool with hemorrhoids change its usual appearance and what needs to be done to eliminate the pathology? It is easy to answer this question if you know what changes in the body occur with hemorrhoids.

Contents

• 1 What is hemorrhoids
• 2 Why does hemorrhoids cause thin stools
• 3 What pathologies change the shape of feces

What are hemorrhoids

900 04 Hemorrhoids occur due to inflammation and subsequent thrombosis of the hemorrhoidal veins located in rectum. This leads to the fact that the blood flow is disturbed, the veins are stretched and knots are formed that protrude from under the mucous layer. Hemorrhoids are divided into three forms, these are:

• Internal – vasodilation is localized only within the rectum, and the resulting nodes protrude into its lumen. Internal hemorrhoids develop gradually and therefore are often found in the last stages.
• External – hemorrhoids come out of the lumen of the rectum, they are easy to feel around the anus. At the first stage, the nodes are independently reduced, at the last they cannot be set without surgical intervention. The external form of hemorrhoids is manifested by severe symptoms at the earliest stage of the onset of pathology.
• The combined form of the disease is exhibited when hemorrhoids occupy both the inside of the rectum and the area around the anus.

Dilated hemorrhoidal veins are mainly caused by increased pressure in the abdominal cavity. In turn, such a violation is provoked by a sufficiently large number of changes in the body. Most often, these are constipation, constant hard physical labor, physical inactivity. Women mainly acquire this disease during pregnancy, and during prolonged and too difficult childbirth.

Why thin feces appear with hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are manifested by quite characteristic symptoms, first of all, these are painful manifestations that occur during and after the act of defecation. Some patients feel constant heaviness in the lower abdomen, burning and itching in the anus. Thin feces with hemorrhoids appear mainly in its internal form.

This is due to the fact that the hemorrhoids partially block the lumen of the rectum and squeeze the fecal masses coming out of the intestine, as a result, the shape of the stool changes. Normally, stools should be cylindrical in shape, they range from 2 to 5 cm in diameter and have constrictions formed under the influence of movement through the intestines.

It is believed that a person should defecate at least three times a week, for some it happens even two or three times a day. If at such a frequency of bowel movements the general state of health does not change, there are no signs of constipation or diarrhea, then this is considered the norm.

The shape of feces with developing hemorrhoids also changes due to the fact that painful sensations lead to the fact that a person is afraid to empty himself once again. This leads to the development of constipation and, accordingly, stool masses change their usual appearance. Thin, ribbon-like feces can also be caused by a digestive disorder, which is often the case with pancreatitis. It is possible to find out exactly the reason for the change in the type of stool only after a comprehensive examination.

Often it is the ribbon-like feces that are the first sign of the appearance of hemorrhoids in the lumen of the rectum. A person may not pay attention to small uncomfortable sensations, such as burning and occasional itching, associating them with bowel movements.

Therefore, if an unusual form of feces appears, you should consult a proctologist, in order to identify changes in the rectum, it is enough for the doctor to conduct a conventional digital examination. If necessary, the doctor sends his patients for diagnostic procedures.

Under what pathologies does the shape of feces change? But in addition to this pathology, pencil-shaped bowel movements can also occur in diseases that lead to a narrowing of the lumen of the rectum. In some cases, the cause of thin feces is spastic constriction of the sphincter, which occurs as a result of inflammatory processes or pathologies of the central and autonomic nervous systems.

Feces in the form of a ribbon can also indicate neoplasms, most often these are polyps, although the development of a cancerous tumor is not excluded. It is possible to differentiate hemorrhoids and other pathologies of the lower intestines only on the basis of diagnostic manipulations and tests.

Hemorrhoidal vasodilation of the rectum and malignant formation of this area are manifested by similar symptoms, but they also have some distinctive features, these are:

• The nature of bloody discharge. If a person has hemorrhoids, then scarlet blood is usually released at the end of a bowel movement, it remains on the surface of the stool without mixing with them. Often with hemorrhoids, a thin bloody trickle can be seen on the surface of the feces. In cancer, the blood is dark and mixed with feces.
• Mucus discharge in rectal cancer. Mucous secretion is secreted just before bowel movements, and it has an unpleasant odor and is often mixed with pus. The collapse of the tumor or its traumatization leads to the fact that fragments of the neoplasm appear in the feces, while this is not the case with hemorrhoids.