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

what is the meaning of green stool?

Accepted Answer

Usually nothing: https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/green-stool/basics/definition/SYM-20050708
You may visit this site for information on this topic.
Have a healthy diet, exercise 30 minutes/day, drink plenty of water, have safe sex, no tobacco alcohol weed or street drugs. For nutrition: http://www.choosemyplate.gov/.
Get HPV vaccine

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

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

Question 8

stool problem: is it normal for your stools to the size and shape of a pencil one day and big the next day?

Accepted Answer

Yes: The size and shape of your stool is determined by how long the stool is in your rectum, and the tightness of your anal muscles.  Long duration in the rectum = larger, harder stools.  Tight anal muscles will make stool 'squeeze out' -- like out of a toothpaste container.
You can stop these swings by getting more fiber (roughage) in your diet or taking benefiber; make sure to get enough water also!

Question 9

i have almond shapes in stool a lot i have ate nothing in three days still these show up not on medication what can it be?

Accepted Answer

Several issues....: First, I'm not clear if you have things that are shaped like almonds embedded in your stool, or if your stool itself is almond-shaped. Second, it is also not clear why you have not eaten anything for three days, but that is a major red flag. Food is essential for survival, and you shouldn't be fasting for 3 days at a time. Finally, you really need to see a primary care doc or GI specialist ASAP.

Question 10

should i be concerned, flat stools for the past two weeks, usually go round in shape. reading lots on computer, scared. please help?

Accepted Answer

Usually not serious: It is most likely from bowel spasm (spastic colon or irritable bowel syndrome) in someone your age. I suggest a high fiber diet and a supplement like Metamucil or Citrucel daily, and perhaps a probiotic as well. If symptoms persist should get it checked out.

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Doctor answers about:

Stool shape meanings

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:

What is the meaning of green stool?

A member asked:

Flat stools ribbon shape what's wrong?

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?

A member asked:

Stool problem: is it normal for your stools to the size and shape of a pencil one day and big the next day?

A member asked:

I have almond shapes in stool a lot i have ate nothing in three days still these show up not on medication what can it be?

A member asked:

Should i be concerned, flat stools for the past two weeks, usually go round in shape. reading lots on computer, scared. please help?

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