Change in bowel habits

An alteration from a patient's usual bowel pattern, including stool frequency, consistency, caliber, or ease of passage, encompassing new-onset diarrhea, constipation, alternating patterns, or other persistent deviation from baseline defecatory function.

Causes

• Inadequate fiber or fluid intake

• Lack of physical activity

• Stress/anxiety

• Medications: Antibiotics, antacids, iron supplements, and pain relievers

• GI disease: IBS, IBD, infections, celiac disease, colorectal cancer

• Thyroid disorders