The Bowel rhythm refers to the frequency and manner in which a person evacuates, meaning how often they go to the toilet and what their stools are like. Although there is some variability between individuals, constant changes in this rhythm, such as Constipation, the diarrhoea o alternation between both, They can indicate that something is not working correctly in the digestive system and should be properly evaluated.
Persistent diarrhoea
What is the patient feeling
The Persistent diarrhoea it is the presence of looser-than-usual stools that persist over time, beyond a few days. It is not a one-off episode, but a sustained alteration of bowel rhythm.
It can have multiple causes, from infections to more complex digestive problems. Therefore, when it persists, It is important to study it to identify its origin. y prevent it from affecting the general condition.
What pathology may be related
When you should consult
- If it lasts more than two weeks. Prolonged persistence of liquid stools.
- If there are signs of dehydration. Excessive thirst, dry mouth or dizziness when getting up.
- If blood or mucus appears. Presence of unusual substances in stools.
How do we tackle it at GASTEA?
We analyse the duration, frequency, and characteristics of stools.
We differentiate between infectious, functional, or inflammatory causes.
Analytics, stool examination or colonoscopy if necessary.
Adapted to the specific cause and control of the evolution.
Preguntas frecuentes
Persistent constipation
What is the patient feeling
The patient usually notices they are going to the toilet less often than usual, that their stools are hard or that they need to strain to pass them. In many cases, it also appears Feeling of incomplete evacuation.
When constipation persists over time, it can be accompanied by swelling, abdominal discomfort o feeling of heaviness. Furthermore, it can affect daily well-being and generate recurring discomfort.
What pathology may be related
When you should consult
- If it's a recent onset . Sudden changes in your bowel habits that you haven't experienced before.
- If there is blood in the stool. Presence of red or black residue in stools.
- If accompanied by pain. Severe abdominal discomfort or a feeling of obstruction.
- If there is weight loss. Significant weight loss for no apparent reason.
How do we handle it at GASTEA?
We analyse the frequency, stool form and symptom progression.
We differentiate between slow-transit constipation, functional disorders, or other causes.
We indicate studies such as colonic transit, anorectal manometry or colonoscopy if necessary.
We adapt the management according to the cause and characteristics of each patient.
Preguntas frecuentes
Alternating diarrhoea and constipation
What is the patient feeling
The patient usually notices changes in their bowel rhythm, moving from periods of diarrhoea to phases of constipation. These changes can appear irregularly and cause a feeling of digestive instability.
In many cases, it is accompanied by bloating, gas o Abdominal discomfort. This alternation can be uncomfortable, make daily routines difficult, and create uncertainty when not knowing how the bowel will respond.
What pathology may be related
When you should consult
- If the changes are persistent. Variations in rhythm that last for weeks.
- If there is abdominal pain. Discomfort that usually eases after a bowel movement.
- If it appears after the age of 50. Changes in bowel habits with no known prior cause.
How do we handle it at GASTEA?
We analyse the pattern of changes and their evolution over time.
We differentiate between functional, inflammatory or other causes.
We recommend tests such as analysis, stool examination or colonoscopy if necessary.
We adapt the management according to the cause and the profile of each patient.
Preguntas frecuentes
Changes in bowel rhythm
What is the patient feeling
The patient usually notices that Your bowel rhythm has changed from what is usual, whether it's going to the toilet more often, less, or alternating between the two. It's not a one-off change, but a sustained variation over time.
In many cases, these changes are accompanied by digestive complaints such as bloating, gas or abdominal discomfort. They can also cause concern, especially when the patient perceives that their bowel is no longer functioning as it did before.
What pathology may be related
When you should consult
- If the change is sudden. Sudden change in frequency or consistency without diet changes.
- If there is weight loss. Unintentional weight loss associated with new bowel routine.
- If you notice blood in your stool. Presence of red or black residue in stools.
How do we handle it at GASTEA?
We analyse how the bowel rhythm has changed and since when.
We identify if it is a functional disorder, inflammatory, or another cause.
We recommend tests such as stool analysis, stool tests or colonoscopy if necessary.
We adapt the management according to the cause and the patient's characteristics.
Preguntas frecuentes
There may be variations, but if the change is sustained, it's worth considering.
Yes, in many cases diet influences bowel rhythm.
It could be both, which is why it's important to study it if it persists.
Yes, by identifying the cause, it can be effectively improved.
Urgency to defecate
What is the patient feeling
The patient usually notices a sudden and intense need to go to the toilet, with little ability to delay it. This urgency can appear unexpectedly and cause discomfort or insecurity when away from home.
In many cases, it is accompanied by a feeling of lack of control, increased bowel movement frequency, or prior abdominal discomfort. It can affect your day-to-day life and dictate your routine for fear of not arriving on time.
What pathology may be related
When you should consult
- Your daily life is limited. A desperate need to go to the toilet that dictates your activities.
- If there are episodes of incontinence. Accidental loss of sphincter control.
- If associated with diarrhoea. Urgent need accompanied by frequent loose stools.
How do we handle it at GASTEA?
We analyse when urgency appears and its relationship with other symptoms.
We identify whether it is due to a functional, inflammatory, or other cause.
We indicate tests such as stool analysis, colonoscopy, or functional tests if necessary.
We adapt the management according to the cause and the impact on the patient.
Preguntas frecuentes
It can happen occasionally, but if it's frequent or intense, it's worth getting it checked out.
Yes, it's one of the most common causes.
Not always, although it's usually associated with changes in bowel rhythm.
Yes, with a proper diagnosis, it can be effectively improved.
Feeling of incomplete evacuation (tenesmus)
What is the patient feeling
The patient usually notices that after going to the toilet, has not fully evacuated, as if something were left unfinished. This feeling can appear occasionally or occur frequently.
In many cases, it is accompanied by the need to return to the bathroom shortly after., strain when evacuating or abdominal discomfort. This can be uncomfortable and create the feeling that the bowel is not functioning normally.
What pathology may be related
When you should consult
- If it is constant. A persistent feeling of needing to defecate, even though one has just been to the toilet.
- If there is mucus or blood. Ejection of unusual substances when attempting to evacuate.
- If there is rectal pain. Discomfort or heaviness localised to the rectal or anal area.
How do we handle it at GASTEA?
We analysed the frequency of the symptom and its relationship with bowel rhythm.
We identify if it is a functional, inflammatory, or evacuation problem.
We indicate studies such as anorectal manometry, ultrasound, or colonoscopy if necessary.
We adapt management based on the cause and patient profile.
Preguntas frecuentes
It can happen occasionally, but if it's frequent, it's worth considering.
Yes, it's one of the most common causes.
Yes, in some cases it is associated with intestinal inflammation or irritation.
Yes, by identifying the cause, it can be effectively improved.
Price
- Symptom characteristics. Frequency, straining during bowel movements, and sensation after defecation.
- Personalised diagnostic plan. We define the necessary tests to identify the cause.
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