November 30, 2004
Q: The past 2 days I have been having a problem with the color of my stool, it is like a light green! Is there something wrong with me?
Michelle.

A: Dear Michelle, Stool colors vary from greens to brown. The major type of color that is worrisome is black, which can mean bleeding. Very light stools can suggest a liver problem. The color of stool is very much influenced by diet. Your description does not suggest any thing serious but if it continues to bother you, see your physician.
Dr. Dave

November 22, 2004
Q: Why do all my bowel movements float? I never have stools that sink. This has been going on for about 2 years. I am 68 years old and I am in good health. Is this a sign of a problem? Should I be concerned? I had colon cancer in 1981 and had approximately 12 inches of my colon removed. I received no chemo or radiation. Thank you, in advance, for your help.
Don.

A: Dear Don, Thank you for telling me about your colon cancer history. It sounds good. I assume you have had a recent colonoscopy. Floating stools suggest fat in the stools and may be an indication of malabsorption. This can mean pancreatic or small bowel problems and you should be checked by your doctor or gastroenterologist. Sometimes normal stools will float, but you need to check it out. Good luck.
Dr. Dave

February 26, 2004
Q: I'm a 55 year old male and for the past two days I've been experiencing green colored stools. My dietary habits have not changed, although I did eat black licorice over the weekend. I do have bleeding hemorrids and daily have blood on the toilet paper. I do not believe the bleeding is anything more than hemoridal. Do you have any suggestions on why my stools have changed color? Thank you. James

A: Dear James, There is a normal and natural variance in the color of stools (from green to brown shades). Green, like you describe, is most likely a normal variant. It is probably due to the food you ate - most likely the licorice. The most significant change in stool color
is black and tarry, that could mean bleeding somewhere in the gastrointestinal tract and requires immediate medical attention... also of concern is very light and pale stools which may mean liver problems... and
of course red blood making a stool red would also need medical attention.
Dr. Dave

February 15, 2004
Q: Recently my bowel movement has a different shape. Instead of solid movement I have little nuggets. I also have solid movements that are long and skinny. My movements slide out very easily and slide out when I go to urinate. Is this normal? Dorene

A: Dear Dorene, The description of your stools suggest lack of bulk. This is often associated with constipation. I would try to increase bulk in your diet, like bran cereal, fresh vegetables and fruits. You might add an additive like fruit-eze also. If this condition of change in your bowel habit continues, consult your doctor. Dr. Dave.

January 14, 2004
Q: Hi, I just ordered your book. However I have not received it yet and I do have a question. I go to the bathroom very regularly. However, I will have a "normal" stool, usually most always followed by much more soft stool. Is there a specific cause of this usually? Is it food, nerves neither or both? Thank you, Sarah

A: Sarah, What you are describing is normal. You are doing good, so keep it up. I hope you enjoy reading my book "Gut Reactions".    Dr. Dave