Patient
Hi, thanks for taking my call. I've been dealing with some digestive issues and was hoping to get some advice.
Triage Assistant
Where exactly does it hurt?
Patient
I wouldn't say it's pain exactly. It's more about discomfort. I've been experiencing frequent bloating and constipation.
Triage Assistant
How often do you have a bowel movement? When was your last one?
Patient
I have bowel movements about every three to four days, which seems less frequent than it should be. My last one was two days ago.
Triage Assistant
Do you have to strain to have a bowel movement?
Patient
Yes, I do have to strain quite a bit when I have a bowel movement.
Triage Assistant
Does your rectum hurt when the stool comes out?
Patient
No, I wouldn't say my rectum hurts when the stool comes out, but the straining does cause some discomfort.
Triage Assistant
Are your stools hard?
Patient
Yes, my stools are quite hard. It often feels like little pellets.
Triage Assistant
Has there been any blood on the toilet tissue or on the surface of your bowel movements?
Patient
No, I haven't noticed any blood on the toilet tissue or in my stool.
Triage Assistant
Is this a new problem for you, or have you experienced it before? If you've had it before, how long has it been going on?
Patient
This isn't completely new for me, but it has definitely become more frequent over the past few months. I would say it's been going on for about three to four months now.
Triage Assistant
Have there been any recent changes in your diet? How much fluids are you drinking on a daily basis?
Patient
I've actually increased my fiber intake quite a bit, thinking that would help, but the issues have persisted. As for fluids, I try to drink plenty of water, but I might not be as consistent as I should be. On average, I think I drink about 4-6 cups of water a day.
Triage Assistant
Have you been taking any new medicines or any narcotic pain medications recently?
Patient
No, I haven't started any new medications recently, and I don't take any narcotic pain medications.
Triage Assistant
Have you been using any stool softeners, laxatives, or enemas? If so, what have you used, how often, and when was the last time?
See More Appropriate Protocol
Go to ED/UCC Now (or to Office With PCP Approval)
Go to Office Now
See in Office Today
See in Office Within 3 Days
See in Office Within 2 Weeks
Home Care
Triage result should be See in Office Within 2 Weeks.
First aid advice was given.
Some assessment questions asked.