How often should a person have bowel movements. What factors can influence the frequency of bowel movements. How can frequent solid bowel movements be managed effectively. What dietary changes can help regulate bowel movements. When should someone seek medical advice for frequent bowel movements.

Understanding Normal Bowel Movement Frequency

Bowel movement frequency varies from person to person, and there’s no universally agreed-upon “normal” number. Most health experts consider 1-3 bowel movements per day to be within the healthy range. However, research suggests that having as few as three bowel movements per week can still be considered normal for some individuals.

The key is to understand what’s typical for your own body. Significant changes in your usual bathroom habits, especially if they persist, may warrant attention.

What Defines Healthy Bowel Movements?

Healthy bowel movements are characterized by:

• Consistency: Soft but formed stools
• Ease of passage: No straining or discomfort
• Regularity: A consistent pattern, whether daily or every few days
• Color: Usually brown, though this can vary based on diet

Common Causes of Frequent Solid Bowel Movements

Several factors can contribute to an increase in the frequency of solid bowel movements:

1. Dietary Factors

Diet plays a crucial role in bowel movement frequency. Consuming a high-fiber diet, for instance, can lead to more frequent bowel movements. Similarly, certain foods and beverages can act as natural laxatives:

• Prunes and other dried fruits
• Caffeine-containing beverages like coffee and tea
• Spicy foods
• High-fat meals

2. Increased Physical Activity

Regular exercise can stimulate bowel movements by increasing blood flow to the digestive system and promoting muscle contractions in the intestines. This is why many people experience the urge to use the bathroom during or after exercise.

3. Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations, particularly in women, can affect bowel movement frequency. This is often observed during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause.

4. Medications

Certain medications can increase bowel movement frequency as a side effect. These may include:

• Some antibiotics
• Certain antidepressants
• Some blood pressure medications
• Magnesium-containing antacids

Medical Conditions Associated with Frequent Bowel Movements

While dietary and lifestyle factors often explain increased bowel movement frequency, several medical conditions can also be responsible:

1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a common digestive disorder characterized by abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. Some individuals with IBS experience frequent bowel movements, while others may struggle with constipation.

2. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to frequent bowel movements, often accompanied by abdominal pain and blood in the stool.

3. Celiac Disease

This autoimmune disorder affects about 1% of the global population. When individuals with celiac disease consume gluten, it triggers an immune response that can lead to various digestive symptoms, including frequent bowel movements.

4. Hyperthyroidism

An overactive thyroid gland can speed up many bodily processes, including digestion, potentially resulting in more frequent bowel movements.

Strategies for Managing Frequent Solid Bowel Movements

If you’re experiencing frequent solid bowel movements and they’re causing discomfort or inconvenience, consider these management strategies:

1. Dietary Modifications

Adjusting your diet can often help regulate bowel movements:

• Reduce intake of foods known to stimulate bowel movements, such as caffeine and spicy foods
• Increase consumption of foods that can firm up stools, like bananas, rice, and toast
• Stay hydrated to maintain proper stool consistency
• Consider keeping a food diary to identify potential trigger foods

2. Stress Management

Stress can significantly impact digestive function. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques into your routine may help:

• Practice mindfulness meditation
• Engage in regular exercise
• Ensure adequate sleep
• Consider cognitive-behavioral therapy if stress is a major factor

3. Probiotics

Probiotics, beneficial bacteria that support gut health, may help regulate bowel movements. These can be found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, or taken as supplements.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While occasional changes in bowel habits are normal, certain symptoms warrant medical attention. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

• Persistent changes in bowel habits lasting more than a few weeks
• Blood in the stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Severe abdominal pain
• Frequent nighttime bowel movements
• Fatigue or weakness

These symptoms could indicate underlying health conditions that require professional evaluation and treatment.

Diagnostic Approaches for Frequent Bowel Movements

When investigating the cause of frequent solid bowel movements, healthcare providers may employ various diagnostic tools:

1. Medical History and Physical Examination

A thorough discussion of your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle factors is often the first step. Your doctor may also perform a physical exam, including an abdominal examination.

2. Stool Tests

Stool samples can be analyzed for signs of infection, inflammation, or malabsorption issues. These tests can detect:

• Parasites
• Bacterial infections
• Blood in the stool
• Markers of inflammation

3. Blood Tests

Blood tests can check for various conditions that might affect bowel function, including:

• Celiac disease
• Thyroid disorders
• Inflammatory markers

4. Imaging Studies

In some cases, imaging tests may be necessary to visualize the digestive tract:

• Colonoscopy: A procedure to examine the entire colon
• CT scan: To identify structural abnormalities or inflammation
• MRI: For detailed imaging of soft tissues

Treatment Options for Frequent Solid Bowel Movements

Treatment approaches for frequent solid bowel movements depend on the underlying cause. Here are some common strategies:

1. Dietary Interventions

For many individuals, dietary changes are the first line of treatment:

• Elimination diets to identify food sensitivities
• Low FODMAP diet for those with IBS
• Gluten-free diet for individuals with celiac disease
• Increasing or decreasing fiber intake, depending on individual needs

2. Medications

In some cases, medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms:

• Antidiarrheal agents like loperamide for short-term relief
• Antispasmodics to reduce intestinal cramping
• Bile acid sequestrants for bile acid malabsorption
• Antibiotics for bacterial overgrowth or infections

3. Psychological Therapies

For individuals where stress or anxiety plays a significant role:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Gut-directed hypnotherapy
• Relaxation techniques

4. Probiotic Therapy

Probiotics may help restore balance to the gut microbiome, potentially regulating bowel movements. However, the effectiveness can vary depending on the specific probiotic strain and individual factors.

Lifestyle Modifications to Support Digestive Health

In addition to specific treatments, certain lifestyle changes can promote overall digestive health and potentially help regulate bowel movements:

1. Regular Exercise

Engaging in regular physical activity can help stimulate healthy digestion. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. This could include:

• Brisk walking
• Swimming
• Cycling
• Yoga

2. Stress Reduction Techniques

Chronic stress can significantly impact digestive function. Incorporate stress-management practices into your daily routine:

• Meditation or mindfulness practices
• Deep breathing exercises
• Progressive muscle relaxation
• Engaging in hobbies or activities you enjoy

3. Adequate Hydration

Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining healthy bowel function. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day, adjusting based on your activity level and climate.

4. Establish a Regular Bathroom Routine

Try to have bowel movements at consistent times each day. This can help train your body and potentially regulate frequency.

Potential Complications of Frequent Bowel Movements

While frequent solid bowel movements are often not a cause for concern, in some cases, they may lead to complications if left unaddressed:

1. Dehydration

Frequent bowel movements can lead to excessive fluid loss. Signs of dehydration include:

• Thirst
• Dry mouth
• Dark urine
• Fatigue
• Dizziness

2. Nutrient Deficiencies

If food moves through the digestive system too quickly, it may not allow for proper nutrient absorption. This can potentially lead to deficiencies in:

• Vitamins (especially fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K)
• Minerals like iron and zinc
• Calories, potentially leading to unintended weight loss

3. Anal Irritation

Frequent bowel movements can sometimes lead to irritation or soreness around the anus. This can be managed by:

• Using gentle, unscented wipes
• Applying a barrier cream
• Taking sitz baths

4. Social and Emotional Impact

Frequent bowel movements can affect quality of life, potentially leading to:

• Anxiety about being away from a bathroom
• Disruption of daily activities
• Sleep disturbances if nighttime bowel movements are frequent

If you’re experiencing any of these complications, it’s important to discuss them with your healthcare provider to develop an appropriate management plan.

Preventive Measures for Maintaining Healthy Bowel Function

While it’s not always possible to prevent frequent bowel movements, especially those caused by underlying medical conditions, there are steps you can take to promote overall digestive health:

1. Balanced Diet

Maintain a diet rich in:

• Fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Lean proteins
• Healthy fats from sources like avocados, nuts, and olive oil

Avoid excessive consumption of processed foods, sugary snacks, and alcohol.

2. Regular Meal Times

Eating at consistent times each day can help regulate your digestive system and promote regular bowel movements.

3. Stay Active

Regular physical activity supports healthy digestion. Find activities you enjoy and make them a part of your routine.

4. Manage Stress

Chronic stress can disrupt digestive function. Incorporate stress-management techniques into your daily life.

5. Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to how different foods affect your digestion. Keep a food diary if necessary to identify patterns or trigger foods.

6. Regular Check-ups

Schedule regular health check-ups with your healthcare provider. This can help catch any potential digestive issues early.

By implementing these preventive measures and maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider, you can work towards maintaining healthy bowel function and overall digestive wellness.

Frequent solid bowel movements: Causes and prevention

Frequent solid bowel movements: Causes and prevention

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Medically reviewed by Emelia Arquilla, DO — By Danielle Dresden on October 29, 2020

The frequency and consistency of bowel movements can be an important indicator of health. However, as a standalone symptom, having more bowel movements than normal is not a cause for concern.

Many people associate frequent bowel movements with diarrhea, which involves loose or watery stools. However, a wide variety of factors could cause frequent solid bowel movements. These factors include a person’s diet, food allergies, and underlying health conditions.

In this article, we explore how often bowel movements are likely to occur in people with a good health status. We also cover the causes and treatment of frequent solid bowel movements and explain when to see a doctor.

The frequency and consistency of bowel movements can be important indicators of an individual’s health.

However, health experts do not cite a specific number of bowel movements as being normal or healthy.

The general standard is that most people have one to three bowel movements a day. However, research suggests that having three bowel movements a week is still healthy.

Having fewer than three bowel movements in a week may indicate constipation, particularly if the stools are hard and difficult to pass.

Conversely, three or more watery bowel movements in a day may mean that an individual has diarrhea.

These are general standards and will not apply to everyone. It is important that people consider what is typical for them and take action if they notice any significant or persistent changes in their toilet habits.

Research shows that a wide variety of factors can cause frequent bowel movements:

• Infections of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract: Infections, which may be due to viruses, bacteria, or parasites, can frequently cause short-term bowel problems. One study found that many children with frequent nondiarrheal bowel movements have a non-polio enterovirus (NPEV).
• Food allergies: These cause the immune system to overreact to certain foods, mistakenly treating them as pathogens. About 3–4% of adults in Westernized countries have food allergies, which can be serious if they affect a person’s ability to breathe.
• Caffeine: Due to the laxative effect of caffeine, the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders say that more than two or three cups of coffee or tea a day can cause diarrhea.
• Celiac disease: This disease affects about 1 in every 100 people worldwide. People with celiac disease experience a full immune system response when they eat wheat, barley, or rye. This response can affect a person’s bowel movements and damage their small intestine.
• Lactose intolerance: This condition affects up to 70% of the world’s population. People with this condition cannot consume dairy products without having intestinal problems.
• Exercise: Exercise is healthful overall, but some individuals, such as long-distance runners, may notice powerful urges to move their bowels when working out. Some may even experience diarrhea. Experts suggest that this effect is due to reduced blood flow to the colon.
• Gall bladder problems: Conditions such as Habba syndrome indicate a link between poor gall bladder function and frequent bowel movements.
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): The most common form of functional diarrhea, IBS can also cause constipation. Some people with IBS may experience both symptoms.
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are two forms of this immune system disorder, which causes chronic inflammation of the GI tract and can lead to long-term damage.
• Medications or drug abuse: Many medications can cause digestive problems, including aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics, and blood pressure medications.
• Cancer: Changes in bowel habits can be a sign of colon cancer, particularly if they occur along with other symptoms, such as anemia, unintentional weight loss, fatigue, blood in the stool, and bleeding from the anus.

Frequent bowel movements that are not diarrhea often respond well to self-care, such as using over-the-counter (OTC) medications for symptom relief.

Treatment recommendations for IBS, a common cause of frequent bowel movements, include:

• adjusting the diet to support healthy digestion
• engaging in regular physical activity
• taking steps to manage stress, such as practicing mindfulness or yoga
• treating symptoms of constipation, diarrhea, or stomach pain with OTC or prescription medications, such as loperamide, laxatives, or antispasmodics.

Experts recommend seeing a doctor if diarrhea lasts more than 2 days.

Frequent solid bowel movements do not present the same risk of dehydration as diarrhea. However, a person who is frequently passing solid stools should see a doctor if they:

• develop a fever
• notice blood in their stool
• start vomiting or feeling nauseated
• experience painful stomach cramps
• cannot control their bowel movements

Adhering to a healthful lifestyle can sometimes help people avoid frequent solid bowel movements. Dietary practices that may be particularly useful include:

• adding foods high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, to the diet gradually
• limiting the intake of gluten and products containing gluten
• seeking a doctor’s advice on supplementing the diet with probiotics to increase the “good” bacteria in the gut

Other practices that may help maintain a healthy frequency of bowel movements include:

• exercising regularly
• getting enough sleep
• managing stress with relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and biofeedback
• mental health therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and gut-directed hypnotherapy

The main thing to consider regarding frequent solid bowel movements is whether this pattern represents a change for the individual.

Most of the time, changes in bowel habits are short-term responses to a particular food, a passing virus, or too much coffee, and a person can resolve them with self-care.

Adopting a healthful lifestyle, following a well-balanced diet, and learning to manage stress can help maintain the regularity of bowel movements.

Last medically reviewed on October 29, 2020

• Constipation
• Food Intolerance
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• Crohn’s / IBD
• GastroIntestinal / Gastroenterology
• Nutrition / Diet

How we reviewed this article:

Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We avoid using tertiary references. We link primary sources — including studies, scientific references, and statistics — within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

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• Ahuja, N. (2019). The scoop on poop: What does your poop say about your health [Blog]? 
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• Biofeedback & bowel disorders: Teaching yourself to live without the problem. (2017).
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• Common causes of chronic diarrhea. (2019). 
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• Constipation. (2016). 
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• Diarrhea. (2016). 
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• Durga Rao, C., et al. (2014). Non-diarrhoeal increased frequency of bowel movements (IFoBM-ND): Enterovirus association with the symptoms in children. 
  https://bmjopengastro.bmj.com/content/1/1/e000011
• Exercise & GI symptoms. (2019). 
  https://www.iffgd.org/tips-daily-living/exercise-gi-symptoms.html
• Food allergy vs. intolerance: Know the difference. (2011). 
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• Habba syndrome. (2008). 
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• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). (n.d.).
  https://www. niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/irritable-bowel-syndrome/
• Mawer, S., & Alhawaj, A. F. (2020). Physiology, defecation. 
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• Ochoa, B., & Surawicz, C. M. (2012). Diarrheal diseases — acute and chronic. 
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• Symptoms & causes of diarrhea. (2016). 
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• Symptoms of celiac disease. (n.d.).
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• What is celiac disease? (n.d.). 
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• What is inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)? (2018). 
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Medically reviewed by Emelia Arquilla, DO — By Danielle Dresden on October 29, 2020

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Why Do I Poop So Much? Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

Pooping more than usual can be caused by many factors. It’s not usually a cause for concern unless you have other symptoms.

Pooping habits vary from one person to the next. There isn’t a set number of times a person “should” use the bathroom daily.

While some people may go a few days without a regular bowel movement, others may poop on average once or twice a day.

Several reasons can cause your bowel movements to decrease or increase, including your dietary habits and physical activity. While health conditions can cause an increase in daily bowel movements, pooping more often is not necessarily a cause for alarm unless you also have other symptoms.

The following factors may cause an increase in your bowel movements.

1. Diet

Regular bowel movements are a sign that your digestive system is functioning correctly. Certain foods and drinks can stimulate your digestive system and help you poop. These can include high fiber foods, drinking a lot of water, and drinking many coffee or caffeinated beverages.

High fiber foods

If you’ve recently started eating more fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, you may have increased bowel movements. Dietary fiber supports your health by:

• helping maintain blood sugar levels
• helping prevent heart disease
• improving colon health
• preventing constipation by increasing the size and softness of your stools

High water consumption

Higher water intake can also contribute to excessive pooping because fiber absorbs water and helps flush waste from your body.

High coffee intake

If you’re an avid coffee drinker, you may notice that you have to use the bathroom immediately after your first cup. That’s because caffeine stimulates the large intestine’s muscle activity.

Caffeine and other compounds found in coffee can cause a laxative effect and help move stools through the colon, according to a 2020 review of research.

2. Exercise

According to experts, regular exercise or increasing your physical activity levels can also make you have bowel movements. Exercise improves your digestive processes and increases muscle contractions in your colon that help to move your stools more regularly.

If you are constipated, exercising can help to relieve symptoms and make you poop more regularly.

3. Stress

Stress and anxiety can alter your bowel schedule and regularity.

When you’re under significant stress, a chemical messenger known as a neurotransmitter travels from your brain to your gut. Your gut may respond by altering your digestion.

In some people, this can cause an increase in bowel movements and diarrhea. However, in others, stress and anxiety can cause slowed bowel movements and constipation.

4. Menstruation and pregnancy

If you menstruate, your period can trigger an increase in bowel movements.

Researchers in 2018 suggest that lower levels of estrogen and progesterone around your period may affect processes that can trigger your uterus to cramp, which could be related to symptoms in the large intestine. You may be more likely to have increased bowel movements.

Pregnancy and giving birth can change how often you poop too. While many people experience constipation after giving birth, some poop more. When this happens, it’s called postpartum diarrhea.

The same goes for pregnancy. Constipation is more common during the first trimester than diarrhea, but some folks might find they poop more while pregnant.

5. Medication

If you’ve recently started taking a new medication, such as an antibiotic, it may affect your bowel regularity. Antibiotics can upset the balance of bacteria that live in your digestive tract.

Other medications may stimulate gastrointestinal movement. As a result, you may notice you poop a lot more or have diarrhea.

Medications could alter your bowel regularity while you are taking them. Typically, the loose stools associated with antibiotics resolve within a few days of finishing the treatment.

You may want to consider talking with a doctor if your pooping schedule stays irregular or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms like:

• abdominal pain
• fever
• nausea or vomiting
• foul-smelling or bloody stools

6.

Lactose intolerance

If you are lactose intolerant, eating certain dairy products can cause an increase in bowel movements, as well as other symptoms like gas and bloating.

Dairy products with high lactose can include:

• milk
• cheese, especially soft, fresh cheeses
• ice cream and custard

If you find yourself pooping more and having stomach problems after consuming dairy products, lactose intolerance may be to blame.

7. Celiac disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease that causes your body to respond to gluten negatively. Gluten is found predominantly in wheat, rye, and barley products.

If you consume something containing gluten and have celiac disease, it can make you poop more or experience severe digestive symptoms and inflammation.

Other than excessive pooping and diarrhea, celiac disease can cause or occur alongside other uncomfortable symptoms, including:

• stomach pain
• gas
• fatigue
• anemia
• bloating
• headaches

Over time, this can cause damage to the intestinal lining of the small intestine, leading to malabsorption of nutrients and weight loss.

8. Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease is a form of inflammatory bowel disease. It’s an autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation and discomfort within your digestive tract, running anywhere from inside your mouth to the end of the large intestine.

This inflammation can cause symptoms that include:

• excessive pooping
• severe diarrhea
• bloody stools
• abdominal pain
• loss of appetite
• weight loss
• fatigue
• an anal fistula

9. Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a gastrointestinal disorder that affects the frequency of your bowel movements. There are several risk factors for developing IBS, including how well your body moves food through your gastrointestinal tract.

IBS can cause symptoms like:

• bloating
• abdominal pain
• loose stools with diarrhea or hard stools with constipation
• sudden urges to have a bowel movement

10.

An illness or infection

If you have an infection that affects your digestive tract — such as viral gastroenteritis or a bacterial infection like salmonella or listeria — it can change your bowel habits, often leading to diarrhea.

You may also have other symptoms with illness. These may include:

• fever or chills
• fatigue
• body aches
• nausea or vomiting

Treatment for increased bowel movements can depend on the cause. In some cases, pooping a lot is healthy. This may be the case if you don’t have any other symptoms.

Concerning symptoms can include:

• severe abdominal pain
• fever
• bloody stools

If you’re experiencing diarrhea, a doctor may first recommend home remedies for diarrhea.

If your symptoms persist, a doctor may recommend additional treatments, including medications, depending on the cause. They may also run tests if they believe an autoimmune condition is the cause.

In many cases, pooping a lot can be prevented.

Maintaining a nutritious diet high in fiber and water and low in processed foods and sugars can maintain bowel regularity.

If you notice that you poop after drinking coffee or other sources of caffeine, you may decide to limit the number of cups you consume each day. If you have a food allergy or intolerance, avoiding these foods can reduce symptoms. A food journal can help you track your diet and reactions to certain foods.

The following includes frequently asked questions about an increase in bowel movements.

Is it normal to poop more than 4 times a day?

There is no “normal” amount except what is typical for you. However, some suggest that pooping more than 2 times daily is a sign of diarrhea.

If you consistently poop more than twice a day — especially if you have other symptoms you believe are related — you may want to discuss your bowel frequency with a doctor.

Is pooping a lot healthy?

Pooping between 3 times a week and 2 times a day is pretty typical for an adult. Being on the higher end of that range, such as pooping once or twice a day, may occur if you eat a high fiber diet and exercise regularly.

If your bowel habits suddenly change and you’re pooping more than twice a day and have other symptoms, there may be an underlying cause.

Do you poop more when losing weight?

When trying to maintain a moderate weight, many people switch to a high fiber diet full of whole grains, fruits, and veggies. Because fiber makes your bowel movements more regular, you may find yourself pooping more.

Why do I poop immediately after eating?

A bowel movement is a common immediate reaction to food entering the body. This reflex is expected from time to time. But if you are always pooping right after a meal, it could indicate an underlying health condition.

If you find yourself pooping more often than your usual, there may be a variety of potential causes.

Some, like drinking more coffee or switching to a high fiber diet, may not be a cause for concern. However, if bowel movements increase and become looser or watery, it could indicate an underlying condition, such as celiac disease.

A change in bowel frequency on its own is not a cause for concern. If you are having other symptoms along with pooping more, you may want to talk with a doctor to see if they believe anything else may be the cause.

Tenesmus – frequent, false urge to defecate: causes, treatment

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What tenesmus, or false urge to defecate, says

May 24, 2019

In clinical gastroenterology, one can often hear about such a symptom as tenesmus, or false urge to defecate.

Tenesmus is a frequent urge to defecate, which occurs suddenly, is accompanied by excruciating cutting, drawing pain and is usually ineffectual, that is, not accompanied by feces.

Sometimes a small amount of feces, blood, mucus, or pus may pass during tenesmus. The pain is localized mainly in the anus and perineum, but may radiate to the sacrum, lower abdomen. The pain syndrome is most pronounced in the middle of the attack and most often disappears after going to the toilet.

Frequent urge to defecate is usually not an independent symptom, but is accompanied by other symptoms, such as nausea, persistent abdominal pain, stool disorders (constipation, or diarrhea), flatulence. Intestinal tenesmus is always pathological and indicates certain diseases.

Further in the article we will tell you for what reasons there are false urges to defecate, how to diagnose and treat this pathology.

Causes of frequent urge to defecate

Why do frequent urges to defecate (tenesmus) occur? The causes of this condition are various and, basically, these are diseases of the large intestine, or neurological disorders.

There is frequent bowel movements (intestinal tenesmus) as a direct result of spastic contractions of the muscles of the rectum and perineum. But what causes this condition?

The causes of false urge to empty the bowels, or intestinal tenesmus, can be divided into several groups.

• Acute intestinal infections most commonly cause tenesmus. The causes may lie in such diseases as salmonellosis, dysentery, parasitic infestations (for example, myiasis, schistosomiasis), protozoal infections (amebiasis, balantidiasis), intestinal form of plague. The mechanism of occurrence of tenesmus in this case is associated with the influence of microbes on intramural autonomic nerve plexuses, which regulate contractions of intestinal smooth muscles.
• Diseases of the rectum such as proctitis, rectal prolapse, anal polyps, anal fissures, hemorrhoids can also cause frequent bowel movements. In diseases of the rectum, the mucous membrane is damaged first of all, and any irritation, including ingestion of feces, causes a sharp contraction of the rectal muscles.
• Chronic bowel disease – eg diabetic neuropathy, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, radiation sickness, chronic colitis. False urges in this case are associated with a violation of the nervous regulation and the destruction of the mucous membrane.
• Massive neoplasms of the intestine eg intestinal polyps, anorectal melanoma, adenocarcinoma of the large intestine. In tumors, the mechanism of development of tenesmus can be associated both with a mechanical obstacle to the passage of feces, and with the germination of tumors in the nerve plexus, as a result of which nervous regulation suffers.
• Purulent inflammations (abdominal abscess, Douglas pouch abscess).
• Intestinal tuberculosis .
• Frequent urge to defecate can also occur in diseases of the central nervous system (myelitis, rectal crises).

Diagnosis for frequent false urge to defecate

Frequent false urge to defecate is diagnosed primarily on the basis of patient complaints. History data is also taken into account. But relying only on this, it is not possible to make an accurate diagnosis and develop a treatment regimen.

Therefore, when diagnosing false painful urge to defecate, the following diagnostic methods are important:

• Intestinal x-ray – informative is the study of the intestine with barium, as well as irrigography with double contrast.
• Digital examination of the rectum – helps to diagnose diseases of the rectum (hemorrhoids, anal fissures, neoplasms of the rectum, etc.).
• Endoscopic examination , separately colonoscopy – allows you to assess the condition of the mucous membrane, determine the causes of inflammatory changes, and identify tumor processes.
• Abdominal ultrasound .
• Coprogram is informative for intestinal infections, inflammatory bowel diseases.

In some cases, laboratory tests and computed tomography can be informative in the diagnosis of tenesmus.

Intestinal tenesmus: treatments

Directly depends on the correct diagnosis of tenesmus (false urge to defecate) treatment.

Since tenesmus is a symptom of various diseases – infectious, inflammatory, neurological, endocrine – treatment should first of all be aimed at eliminating the underlying pathology.

So, if intestinal tenesmus occurs against the background of intestinal infections, treatment will include:

• antibacterial
• antimicrobials
• enterosorbents
• infusion therapy.

If the cause of tenesmus was inflammatory bowel disease, treatment will include anti-inflammatory, antibacterial drugs. In case of tumor processes, surgical intervention may be necessary.

Regardless of the causes of tenesmus, treatment must necessarily include diet, restrictions are imposed on activities such as cycling, horseback riding, long car rides, violent sexual intercourse.

9 causes of false urge to defecate

False urge to defecate is a painful, but unfulfilled desire to empty the intestines. In medicine, they are called tenesmus and are attributed to the symptoms of various diseases, since they cannot exist by themselves.

Description

False tenesmus, as a rule, is ineffectual, but can sometimes end with the discharge of a small amount of feces or mucus. They are accompanied by pain that disappears immediately after going to the toilet.

The anus, the perineal region and the sacrum can hurt, often the pain radiates – radiates – to the lower abdomen. In most cases, tenesmus is accompanied by other symptoms characteristic of gastrointestinal lesions:

• change in the frequency and nature of the chair;
• bloating and persistent pain in the abdomen;
• nausea, vomiting.

Important! Particular attention should be paid to purulent and bloody discharge from the anus after intestinal attempts, as this indicates a serious pathology. If you have such a symptom, you should definitely consult a doctor.

Why do you always want to go to the toilet

The causes of false urge to defecate are very diverse, but they are all associated with a violation of the functions of the intestines or the genitourinary system. Sometimes they are caused by partial infringement of the hernia.

Intestinal tenesmus can also develop against the background of abdominal abscesses with concomitant fever, nausea, and rapid heart rate. Patients experience abdominal pain that increases with a change in posture. At the same time, it pulls to go to the toilet due to reflex irritation of the walls of the sigmoid and rectum.

If the abscess is localized in the utero-rectal recess, the urge to defecate is often accompanied by a loss of control over bowel movements.

Make an appointment for an online consultation if you often feel the urge to go to the toilet in a big way, but do not have a bowel movement. Our doctors will help you understand the situation and give an explanation for this symptom. Feel free to contact us anytime, our experts are available 24/7.

Diseases of the rectum

The constant desire to go to the toilet is due to an increase in the sensitivity of the mucous membranes to mechanical stress. Even a small amount of stool or mucus can provoke sharp and painful contractions of the rectal muscles.

The contractility of the external and internal anal sphincters is disturbed, the contents of the intestine are delayed. This causes severe pain.

Proctitis

With inflammation of the rectum, there are not only frequent urges to defecate, but also itching, pain, discomfort in the anus. False urges often end with the release of a small amount of mucopurulent mass.

Rectal prolapse

The displacement of a part of the rectum beyond the boundaries of the external sphincter causes mechanical irritation of the intestinal wall and compression of nerve receptors. It seems to a person that he wants to go to the toilet, but there is no excretion of feces.

In addition to tenesmus, he is disturbed by intense pain in the anus and perineum, a feeling of incomplete emptying after defecation, a sensation of a foreign body in the anus.

Polyps

Painful urge to stool occurs only when the polyps are large and are the result of constant squeezing and irritation of the intramural ganglia.

For polyposis is characterized by the release of a small amount of blood after the discharge of feces, unstable stool. Regular blood loss leads to the development of anemia.

Anal fissures and hemorrhoids

The most striking symptom of mucosal damage is pain during defecation, the intensity of which depends on the size of the crack. The cause of false urges is a failure of the reflex regulation of the act of defecation.

With hemorrhoids, tenesmus provokes venous nodes protruding into the intestinal lumen.

Book an online consultation if you have tenesmus due to hemorrhoids or another disease. Our doctors will help you assess your condition by chat or by phone, and will make an examination plan, as well as talk about treatment methods. Specialists work around the clock, contact us at any time.

Diseases of the colon: diabetic enteropathy

In patients with diabetic polyneuropathy, mainly nocturnal tenesmus is noted against the background of damage to the autonomic intra-intestinal nerves. In addition, the stool becomes more frequent, the density of excrement changes. In severe cases, intestinal pseudo-obstruction develops.

Crohn’s disease

False urges to the toilet appear only in the later stages of Crohn’s disease, with ineffectiveness or no treatment. They are usually combined with nausea, vomiting, severe weight loss and pain in the right side of the abdomen.

UC – non-specific ulcerative colitis

Tenesmus may disturb patients with damage to the lower parts of the colon. The reason is the formation of deep ulcers on the mucous membranes, impaired innervation and discoordination of the function of the anal sphincters.

NUC is also manifested by other symptoms, including:

• acute attacks of pain in the abdomen;
• scanty stool;
• rectal bleeding.

Chronic colitis

Frequent urge to go to the toilet in a big way in the chronic course of colitis is caused by 3 factors:

• decreased local immune defense;
• failure of the contractile activity of the muscles of different areas of the intestine;
• damage to the intestinal mucosa by bacteria.

The most pronounced false urge to defecate is expressed in left-sided colitis and sigmoiditis (inflammation of the sigmoid colon). Other typical symptoms are paroxysmal pain in the lower abdomen and scanty stools mixed with blood.

Case study:
A 33-year-old man went to the doctor with false urges to defecate, which bother him only during the day, but constantly, during the year. No tenesmus at night. Examination revealed chronic colitis. Assigned drugs with enveloping action, softening the stool, antithrombotic drugs. Vitamin intake and diet No. 4b are recommended.

Radiation sickness

The intestine is affected under the influence of high doses of radiation with a single exposure. The clinic includes intense pain in the abdomen, diarrhea, vomiting. Severe lesions are accompanied by debilitating contractions of the rectal muscles without excretion of feces. False urges often end in rectal bleeding.

Tenesmus in children

False urge to defecate in infancy occurs against the background of various developmental anomalies. For example, when one of the sections of the intestine is too long or shortened.

Similar deviations are observed in Down syndrome and polyhydramnios in a woman during pregnancy. Sometimes the cause is maternal diabetes.

In older children, tenesmus may be the result of psycho-emotional experiences, dysbacteriosis, tuberculosis, and the same reasons as in adults.

False urge to defecate is a reason to show the child to the doctor, and as soon as possible.

FAQ

What studies help to determine why there are false urges to defecate?

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During the diagnostic examination, the doctor may prescribe an x-ray with barium and a contrast agent, a colonoscopy, an ultrasound of the abdominal organs, and a coprogram. A very informative and simple diagnostic method for diagnosing tenesmus is a physical examination of the anus with the help of fingers and anoscopy.

What drugs are used in the treatment of tenesmus?

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For symptomatic therapy with false urges, antispasmodics are used – Drotaverine, Papaverine, Mebeverine. Depending on the underlying disease, the doctor may prescribe antidiarrheals (Loperamide), laxatives (Metamucil), sedatives (Diazepam, Lorazepam), antibiotics, and probiotics.

What happens if you do not treat false urge to defecate?

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If left untreated, the disease will go into a chronic stage with the development of a more severe form. Especially dangerous is the uncontrolled use of analgesics, which can lead to life-threatening conditions.

Do herbs help get rid of the painful nighttime urge to defecate?

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Yes, but only as an additional remedy in the complex treatment of tenesmus. Infusions and decoctions of medicinal herbs can significantly relieve pain and reduce the severity of tenesmus in many diseases, including cystitis, ulcers, enterocolitis, etc.

Conclusion

False urge to defecate can acquire a complicated course, depending on the underlying disease. If the treatment is chosen incorrectly or is completely absent, the risk of complications increases significantly.