Having a bowel movement only once every few days, and the stool is sticky and thick.

Under normal circumstances, having bowel movements only every few days with stools that are sticky or viscous may be caused by improper diet, insufficient water intake, medication side effects, indigestion, gastroenteritis, and other factors. These conditions can be managed through lifestyle adjustments or medication. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Improper Diet

A lack of sufficient dietary fiber in the diet may cause stools to become dry and sticky. Dietary fiber helps promote intestinal motility and maintain regular bowel movements. This condition can be improved by consuming more whole grains, such as corn and sweet potatoes.

2. Insufficient Water Intake

Inadequate fluid intake can lead to dry and sticky stools. Maintaining sufficient hydration is essential for normal intestinal function.

3. Medication Side Effects

Certain medications, such as painkillers, antidepressants, and antipsychotics, may affect normal intestinal function, leading to constipation or sticky stools. Consult a doctor to adjust the dosage or switch medications.

4. Indigestion

Long-term overeating can increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract, easily causing indigestion. In such cases, gastrointestinal dysfunction may occur, resulting in abnormal stool characteristics. Under medical guidance, medications such as lactasin tablets or Jianwei Xiaoshi tablets may be taken to relieve symptoms.

5. Gastroenteritis

If this condition is present, prolonged inflammatory stimulation can lead to exudation of inflammatory factors, which may also result in constipation and sticky stools. Under a doctor's advice, medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated capsules or rabeprazole sodium enteric-coated capsules may be used to alleviate symptoms.

If any discomfort occurs, prompt medical evaluation and treatment are recommended to avoid delaying the condition.