loose stools

[bigriney]

I am a new member of this health boards. My concern is that for the last couple months, I have had early morning stools that are very loose and watery. A medium brown color. I might have another mid morning or after eating a breakfast. I may or may not have any more Bms the rest of the day.
I have had my prostate removed 2 years ago, went thru radiation in that area a year ago. Overall good health, eat good. 54 years old, 210 lbs, on lovastatin for cholesterol, no other meds.
Any ideas?? Appreciate any help....bigriney

[Harry]

bigriney,
Welcome to Healthboards!!

I suggest you start taking a water soluble fiber supplement like Metamucil. It is a stool bulking agent and will firm up your stools.

I also think it will slow down your intestines so that your colon has more time to absorb the fluid that it should.
Start off slow-- a natrual fiber like psyllium does breakdown with digestion -- ferments and causes gas --- But, with continued use your system will get use to it and the gas usually goes away. It is a safe fiber to use daily and will make you more regular with only 1 or 2 BMs daily.
Drink the recommemed amount of water with each dose.

Citrucel is a semi-synthetic fiber and works the same way but does not produce gas problems that psyllim does.

I like and use the orange flavored -- sugar free power type --- the Equate brand from Wal Mart that cost less than Metamucil.

This type fiber will also decrease your cholesterol-- an added benefit.

Harry