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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Should I Be Concerned About Passing Flat Stools And Are They Caused By An Obstruction?

For over two years, I have hat flat stools. I am concerned they are caused by an obstruction, possibly polyps. I am otherwise regular. I take omeprozole for acid reduction and as long as i do that I am otherwise asymptomatic. If I don't take it, I get heartburn and acidic bowl movements.
Thu, 15 Dec 2016
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Internal Medicine Specialist,  's  Response
Obstruction can sometimes cause very thin stools. They are not typically described a "flat", but it would not be unreasonable to be concerned. The major concern with colon obstruction is cancer.

I would recommend keeping a stool log (and maybe even taking a picture of one of the stools you mentioned) and speaking with your doctor about these symptoms. If you live in the US and you are over 50 years old, you should make sure you stay up-to-date on your screening colonoscopies (due every 10 years if normal, more frequent if abnormal).
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Should I Be Concerned About Passing Flat Stools And Are They Caused By An Obstruction?

Obstruction can sometimes cause very thin stools. They are not typically described a flat , but it would not be unreasonable to be concerned. The major concern with colon obstruction is cancer. I would recommend keeping a stool log (and maybe even taking a picture of one of the stools you mentioned) and speaking with your doctor about these symptoms. If you live in the US and you are over 50 years old, you should make sure you stay up-to-date on your screening colonoscopies (due every 10 years if normal, more frequent if abnormal).