4 Signs of Abnormal Bowel Movements

There are many schools of thought when it comes to determining what a normal bowel movement is. Having a bowel movement is a natural process that should be effortless. You shouldn't have to think about bowel movements, or make an effort to have one.

But everyone is unique, and will have their own scale of normality when it comes to bowel movements. But there are some signs that your bowel movements are abnormal, and should be discussed with your physician.

These 4 signs are indicators that you need to discuss your bowel movements with your doctor.

1. Low Frequency - Conventional wisdom says that you should have at least one bowel movement a day. There is no rule regarding the frequency of bowel movements, but if you are having less than 3 per week, this could be an issue. You may be suffering from constipation and should examine your diet. Remember, the less bowel movements you have, the more junk will be left inside you. (This includes toxin and parasite buildup)

2. Constipation - While low bowel movement frequency is one sign of constipation, there are many more symptoms that you may experience. Constipation might cause your bowel movements to be hard and dry,and may be difficult to pass. This will also be accompanied by bloating and discomfort.

How can you cure constipation? Take a look at your diet. Do you consume enough fiber? Do you drink enough water? You need to drink sufficient water (8 cups per day), and avoid caffeine (this causes dehydration).

Constipation will not only be uncomfortable, it will prevent your body from releasing toxins and parasites located in your colon and lower intestines. Just think of your body as a car. If you plug up the exhaust pipe, your car will be blocked up and the fumes will have nowhere to be released. Your body is the same way.

3. Diarrhea - Opposite of constipation, is diarrhea. Diarrhea is loose, watery bowel movements that occur more than 3 times a day. Diarrhea is mainly caused by eating something bad, but could also be caused by infection, viruses, and medication.

It is not normal to have loose stool, and your body is trying to rid itself of any viruses or adverse conditions causing the diarrhea. You should seek treatment if diarrhea lasts more than 3 days and you also experience fever, severe pain, dehydration, or blood in the stool.

4. Change in bowel habits - A sudden shift in your bowel movements can signal abnormality. This can include a change in frequency, color, shape, or consistency.

There are obvious signs that signal a change for the worse. It is never normal anytime there is blood in you stool. There could be many reasons why this is occurring, but you should check with your physician. It can be mild conditions like hemorrhoids, or more severe conditions like colon cancer.

Different colors hold different meanings when it comes to bowel movements. Red stools can be caused by hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or colon cancer. Black stools can be caused by internal bleeding. Green stools can mean that your bowel movements are moving too slowly through your colon.

Keep an eye out for each of these 4 signs in your bowel movements. A healthy colon is a big factor in your everyday health. Normal bowel movements will rid your body of toxins and parasites, and keep you functioning properly.