If you’ve noticed your stool looking pencil-thin or stringy lately, it’s time to pay attention. Narrow stools—especially if persistent—can be your body’s way of waving a red flag. From something as simple as constipation to more serious conditions like colon cancer, here’s what you need to know.
What Are Narrow Stools?
Narrow stools are typically thin, flat, or string-like in shape. They may be soft or hard and difficult to pass. Sometimes, they’re just a fluke—but if it’s happening often or alongside symptoms like pain, weight loss, or blood, it may be more than just a bathroom blip.
Top Causes of Narrow Stools:
- Constipation: A backed-up colon can squeeze stool into thin shapes. Up your fiber and water intake to get things moving.
- Hemorrhoids: Swollen veins near the anus can press on stool, altering its shape.
- IBS or Infections: These can disrupt digestion, leading to stringy or loose stool.
- Dehydration or Meds: Not enough water—or medications like opioids—can slow the bowels.
- Colorectal or Anal Cancer: A mass in the colon or rectum can partially block stool, producing thin shapes.
- Fecal Impaction or Anal Stenosis: Physical blockages or narrowing of the anal canal may leave only narrow pathways for stool to exit.
- Diverticulitis: Inflamed pouches in the colon can distort its shape.
When to Talk to Your Doctor:
If narrow stools persist or are paired with bleeding, weight loss, or ongoing discomfort, don’t ignore them. Early intervention matters, especially if something more serious is at play.
Bottom line? Don’t be afraid to check in with your gut—literally. Sometimes your poop is the best clue your body gives you.