Question
I’ve noticed that my bowel movements have become less frequent recently. I used to have at least one a day, but now it’s twice a day. Sometimes I feel like I’m not completely emptying my bowels, and the stool seems a bit black. This hasn’t happened before, and I’m curious about how to solve it.
Answer
There are many causes of constipation, which may be due to excessive internal heat or hormonal imbalance. The black color of stool could be due to the consumption of certain foods, such as blood products, which contain iron that forms sulfide in the intestines, giving the stool a black color. Additionally, it could also be a symptom of a digestive tract disease. Based on your description, it may be related to tenesmus. It is recommended to visit a gastroenterology department at a hospital as soon as possible for further examination. You should drink more water or consume beverages like green tea or jasmine tea, which can help reduce internal heat. Avoid fatty foods. Additionally, maintain a regular lifestyle, avoid staying up late, keep a good mood, and gentle abdominal massage may also help improve symptoms.