Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
Does Hard And Thin Stool Indicate Cancer?
My mother is 91 years old. She has Metastatic melanoma. It spread only to her lung from her arm an she had stereotactic radiation which shrunk the tumor. That was six years ago and her CT Scans were good until 4 years ago she fell and is in a wheel chair for spinal stynosis. She hasn t had CT Scan or PET Scan SINCE. She worries about her cancer and now she worries that her bowel movements have been slightly long and very thin. She has always had hard infrequent bowel movements and she is worried that this is a symptom of cancer. Any ideas?
Wed, 21 Mar 2018
Hello,
As per your clinical history is concerned, please follow like this -
Do a clinical examination by your doctor, [Gastroenterologist] and do a few investigations like [Colonoscopy, anorectal manometry, and colonic transit study] to know the exact pathological cause.
Do follow lifestyle modifications like this-
1) Try to Increase your fiber intake. Adding fiber to your diet increases the weight of your stool and speeds its passage through your intestines. Slowly begin to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables each day.
2) Do exercise most days of the week. Discuss with your doctor which will be suitable for him.
3) Don't ignore the urge to have a bowel movement. Take your time in the bathroom, allowing yourself enough time to have a bowel movement without distractions and without feeling rushed.
4) Discuss with your doctor about osmotic laxatives like [milk of magnesia, or polyethylene glycol]
5) Discuss with your physiotherapist for a specific exercise plan for pelvic floor muscles.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Uday Nath Sahoo
As per your clinical history is concerned, please follow like this -
Do a clinical examination by your doctor, [Gastroenterologist] and do a few investigations like [Colonoscopy, anorectal manometry, and colonic transit study] to know the exact pathological cause.
Do follow lifestyle modifications like this-
1) Try to Increase your fiber intake. Adding fiber to your diet increases the weight of your stool and speeds its passage through your intestines. Slowly begin to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables each day.
2) Do exercise most days of the week. Discuss with your doctor which will be suitable for him.
3) Don't ignore the urge to have a bowel movement. Take your time in the bathroom, allowing yourself enough time to have a bowel movement without distractions and without feeling rushed.
4) Discuss with your doctor about osmotic laxatives like [milk of magnesia, or polyethylene glycol]
5) Discuss with your physiotherapist for a specific exercise plan for pelvic floor muscles.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Uday Nath Sahoo
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Loading Online Doctors....