Question 1

im concerned about stool shape/caliber. the first half is normal (round like a banana, normal diameter, slightly bumpy) but the 2nd half is like a squashed sausage (between flat and round). normal color. no pain. stool is very soft.
is this normal?

Accepted Answer

Stool calibre: I don't see anything serious here. You may have a type of irritable bowel syndrome where intestinal activity varies from sluggish (forming firmer,lumpy stool)  to more active intestinal peristalsis causing looser,flatter stools on a day to day basis. Are you aware of any foods that trigger loose stools? If you still have concerns, consult a gastroenterologist for evaluation and advice.

Question 2

does hemorrhoid has anything to do with my stool shape?

Accepted Answer

It could.: A large hemorrhoid could change the shape of the stool as it passes through the lower portion of the rectum and anal canal.

Question 3

my dad ( 50 years old)  has had changes in his stool shape. what are the chances of changes in stool shape being colon cancer?

Accepted Answer

Possible: The clinical indications of a tumor growing in the distal bowel or simoid/rectosigmoid region is the appearance of blood, or narrowing of stool.  Since the terminal large bowel  functions to completely remove water from the GI tract, the initial site being cecum/rt. colon, if a tumor is obstructing lumen, the stool becomes narrowed.  One requires colonoscopy to confirm source of problem.

Question 4

what's the ideal stool shape in terms of the width? mine are normal color, loose but still formed/solid but they're not quite round across the diameter. they look like a poorly drawn circle for the diameter. is this due to lack of fiber or water?

Accepted Answer

None: Your stool per your description is likely normal. You may want to check Bristol stool chart that describes types of stool on consistency. The shape reflects many times the bowels circumference and that is not meant to be perfectly round. If any symptoms related to your digestion make sure you mention it to your doc.

Question 5

why do i have oval flat shaped stools?

Accepted Answer

It depends, see belo: If this is a new change in the stool shape, it may just be an enlarged hemorrhoid.  If you  have had babies, it could be scarring of your anal canal.
An examination needs to be done by your doctor to really be able to tell what the problem is.  Please make an appointment soon if it persists or increases or bleeding or pain occurs in/with the stool.

Question 6

flat stools ribbon shape what's wrong?

Accepted Answer

See your doctor: If you have had a recent change in your stools-such as described- it may be time to have a colonoscopy and rectal exam to ensure there is nothing compressing the rectum/lower part of the intestines. Seeing your doctor is a good place to start.

Question 7

abnormal stool test results.. worried, what to do?

Accepted Answer

Vague: First provide as complete a story and data to your doctor. It may be trivial, or possibly significant. Please re-ask your question with more information.

Question 8

possible reasons for abnormal stool test results.. worried?

Accepted Answer

Please clarify: dozens of different tests can be done each with many possible results and meanings. It is your right to get an explanation now.

Question 9

i have had abnormal stool color... its been white fot a week? why would that be?

Accepted Answer

Liver: There is likely a problem with your liver. You should see your doctor for testing. Bilirubin, which comes from the liver is yellow in color and is normally broken down in the GI tract. It gives stool it's dark brown color. If there is a blockage of bile or decreased production from liver then stool looks clay white.

Question 10

my stool's shape has change for the last month. it loos like a snake. do i need to get a colonoscopy?

Accepted Answer

Stool shape: There are many variables which can affect the size and shape of stool, including the diet, state of physical hydration or dehydration, associated bowel health or disease, and many others. COnsideration for colonoscopy is made when there are concerns of underlying bowel diseases or tumors. A screening colonoscopy would be indicated if these are discovered by history or on exam

Get Virtual Care

For Businesses

About Us

HealthTap Online Primary Care Doctors Accepting New Patients

Doctor answers about:

Abnormal stool shape

A member asked:

Im concerned about stool shape/caliber. the first half is normal (round like a banana, normal diameter, slightly bumpy) but the 2nd half is like a squashed sausage (between flat and round). normal color. no pain. stool is very soft. is this normal?

A member asked:

Does hemorrhoid has anything to do with my stool shape?

A member asked:

My dad ( 50 years old) has had changes in his stool shape. what are the chances of changes in stool shape being colon cancer?

A member asked:

What's the ideal stool shape in terms of the width? mine are normal color, loose but still formed/solid but they're not quite round across the diameter. they look like a poorly drawn circle for the diameter. is this due to lack of fiber or water?

A member asked:

Why do i have oval flat shaped stools?

A member asked:

Flat stools ribbon shape what's wrong?

A member asked:

Abnormal stool test results.. worried, what to do?

A member asked:

Possible reasons for abnormal stool test results.. worried?

A member asked:

I have had abnormal stool color... its been white fot a week? why would that be?

A member asked:

My stool's shape has change for the last month. it loos like a snake. do i need to get a colonoscopy?

HealthTap Online Primary Care Doctors Accepting New Patients

Telemedicine

Primary Care

Manage Your Conditions

Women's Health

Children's Health

Men's Health

Senior Health

Wellness, Prevention & Lifestyle

Sexual Health

Mental & Behavioral Health

Travel Medicine

Urgent Care

Didn't find what you're looking for?

More of what we treat

Allergies

Antibiotics

Asthma

High Blood Pressure

Prescriptions

Type 2 Diabetes

For Businesses

Company

Health Content

Join Us

Download HealthTap

Questions?