Suggest Treatment For Blood In Stool, Extensive Flatulence And Bowel Problems

Posted on Fri, 3 Oct 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 3 Oct 2014 Answered on

Mon, 27 Oct 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I am 57, male, and having bowel symptoms. they include 3-4 bowel movements daily, extensive flatulence. There are times when I will pass gas for 20-30 mins straight. There are no burps. There is no abdominal pain or bloating or loose stools. I do however have blood in my stools, both dark and bright colors. i have had no tests done. My question is can I get a diagnosis without a colonoscopy? I can not afford one without health insurance.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Klerida Shehu (-2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Unfortunately,cannot get without colonoscopy...

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I have gone through your medical history carefully, and I think you should go for further investigations to determine the right diagnosis as you are reporting blood in feces:
- abdominal ultrasound
- colonoscopy
- culture of feces
- fecal occult blood testing
- complete blood count
- liver/pancreas kidney function test

Having flatulence and gas might be related to:
- bowel infection (candida, etc.)
- food indigestion (pancreas, cholecyst issues)

Unfortunately, your diagnosis cannot get without colonoscopy and other examinations as mentioned earlier.

Meanwhile, I advise to:
- eat often small portions and chew up slowly
- take OTC simethicone for bloating
- avoid foods/drinks that would cause bloating (carbonated drinks, spicy/chilly/processed foods)
- avoid constipation by increasing water intake, eat more fiber rich foods, take stool softeners (e.g. lactulose), go to bathroom each time you feel, do not delay, etc.

Hope it helped!
Dr.Klerida

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj