A change in bowel habits means a noticeable difference in your normal toilet routine, such as going more or less often than usual, experiencing constipation or diarrhoea, or noticing a difference in the consistency of your stools.
While occasional bowel changes are common, persistent or unexplained changes may indicate an underlying digestive condition that requires medical assessment.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Relevant Diagnostic Tests
A change in bowel habits can affect people differently. Some people develop constipation, while others experience looser stools or frequent bowel movements. Some people notice alternating constipation and diarrhoea, with common signs that may include:
Accompanying Symptoms
Changes in bowel habits may occur alongside:
Many factors can affect normal bowel function. Understanding potential triggers can help you identify when symptoms may need further investigation.
Lifestyle & Dietary Triggers
Temporary bowel changes are often linked to:
These causes often improve once the trigger is addressed.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
IBS is one of the most common causes of bowel habit changes. Many people experience abdominal pain, bloating, and alternating constipation and diarrhoea.
Coeliac disease
An autoimmune condition triggered by gluten that can cause diarrhoea, bloating, nutrient deficiencies, and changes in bowel function.
Gut infections
Viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections may lead to sudden bowel changes, diarrhoea, urgency, and abdominal discomfort.
Food intolerances
Lactose intolerance and other food sensitivities can alter bowel transit time and trigger recurring symptoms.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Conditions such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis may cause persistent diarrhoea, abdominal pain, fatigue, and bleeding.
Bowel polyps
Polyps can sometimes affect bowel function and may require monitoring or removal.
Bowel cancer
A persistent change in bowel habits can occasionally be a symptom of bowel cancer, particularly when accompanied by bleeding, weight loss, or unexplained anaemia.
Many changes in bowel habits are temporary and settle on their own. If symptoms continue or you’re concerned about a change that’s unusual for you, it’s worth speaking to a healthcare professional.
The NHS advises speaking to a healthcare professional for persistent bowel changes, as they can sometimes indicate serious underlying conditions including bowel cancer.
It’s important to contact NHS 111, attend an urgent care service, or seek emergency assistance if you have:
Understanding the cause of bowel symptoms is the first step toward effective treatment.
Initial consultation
Your gastroenterologist may ask about:
A physical examination may also be performed.
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy examines the inside of the large bowel using a flexible camera and can help identify inflammation, polyps, bowel cancer, and other abnormalities.
Flexible sigmoidoscopy
This investigates the lower part of the bowel and may be helpful when you’re experiencing certain symptoms.
Blood and stool tests
Tests may assess:
Abdominal ultrasound or CT scan
Imaging scans can help identify possible causes of abdominal symptoms and check for any physical changes or abnormalities within the digestive system.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause identified during assessment.
Self-Care and Home Remedies
Helpful measures may include:
Medical and Prescription Treatments
Depending on the diagnosis, treatments may include:
Surgical or Specialist Interventions
Some conditions may require:
When digestive symptoms affect your quality of life, timely access to specialist assessment can provide reassurance and a clear path forward.
Why Choose Clarity?
✅ Fast access to consultant gastroenterologists
Avoid lengthy waiting times and access expert advice sooner.
✅ Advanced diagnostic facilities
State-of-the-art endoscopy and diagnostic imaging services provided.
✅ Personalised treatment plans
Tailored care designed around your symptoms, lifestyle, and diagnosis.
✅ Comfortable private environment
Dedicated support throughout every stage of your investigation and treatment.
As the first step in your private digestive health journey, Clarity Consult is an entirely FREE consultation.
This is designed to be a clear, consultant-led private pathway for patients experiencing digestive symptoms, with fast access, transparent costs and flexible appointments.