Abnormal Bowel Habits Specialist

John Vizuete, MD, MPH

Gastroenterologist located in San Antonio, TX

Sudden changes in your bowel movements can cause discomfort, pain, and can be a sign of a more significant, if not severe, underlying condition. John Vizuete, MD, MPH, in San Antonio, offers cutting-edge treatment to people struggling with irregular or abnormal bowel movements. To learn more about what’s behind changes in your bowel habits, reach out to the office today by phone or online to book an appointment.

Abnormal Bowel Habits

What causes bowel movements to change?

Bowel habits vary from person to person: some people have normal bowel movements once a day while others might have two or more.

Significant changes to your bowel movements can be signs of an issue that requires medical attention, especially if these changes come with symptoms like constipation, abdominal pain, inflammatory bowel disease, and/or diarrhea.

Some causes for bowel changes include but are not limited to:

Crohn's disease

Crohn’s disease is a form of inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation in multiple areas of the digestive tract. Generally speaking, Crohn’s disease affects the small intestine and the upper part of the large intestine. Common symptoms of Crohn’s disease include:

  • Blood in your stool
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Fatigue
  • Constipation
  • Weight loss

Ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the colon and rectum. Ulcerative colitis can cause symptoms similar to Crohn’s disease, as well as anemia and mucus in your stool.

Bowel changes can also come as a result of irritable bowel syndrome, intestinal infections, and Celiac disease.

What is irritable bowel syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) refers to chronic inflammation of the large intestine. Common symptoms of IBS include:

  • Cramps
  • Abdominal pain
  • Bloating
  • Excess gas
  • Mucus in your stool
  • Diarrhea or constipation

 

Studies have shown that IBS typically affects people under 50 years old. You should get in touch with Dr. Vizuete if you’ve experienced any of these symptoms.

What are the signs of an intestinal infection?

Dr. Vizuete recommends paying close attention to the following symptoms, as they can be signs of an intestinal infection:

  • Watery diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Nausea and/or vomiting
  • Muscle aches
  • Low-grade fever

Contact Dr. Vizuete for an expert diagnosis and comprehensive treatment if you relate to any of these.

What is Celiac disease?

Celiac disease provokes an immune response to gluten. Exposure to gluten can cause damage to your small intestine and provoke sudden bowel changes.

You should speak to Dr. Vizuete about ways in which you can adjust your diet to avoid contact with gluten.

If you’ve noticed changes in your bowel movements or simply aren’t satisfied with your current bowel habits, contact Dr. Vizuete today by phone or online to schedule an appointment.