What should I do if my stool is in large lumpy pieces?

The management of large, pellet-like stools depends on the underlying cause. Common causes include intestinal flora imbalance, constipation, and intestinal functional disorders.

1. Intestinal Flora Imbalance

If large pellet-shaped stools result from an imbalance in intestinal flora—such as a decrease in beneficial bacteria and an increase in harmful bacteria—probiotics may be used under medical guidance to restore gut microbiota. Commonly used medications include Lactobacillus tristrain live tablets and Bifidobacterium tetra-train live tablets.

2. Constipation

If constipation is caused by slow passage of food through the intestines, leading to excessive water absorption and stool hardening, stool-softening medications may be used as directed by a physician. Examples include lactulose oral solution and麻仁润肠丸 (Ma Ren润Chang Pills).

3. Intestinal Functional Disorder

If disordered bowel movements are due to dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system that controls intestinal motility, resulting in uncoordinated intestinal movement, medications prescribed by a doctor can help regulate intestinal function. Commonly used drugs include trimebutine maleate tablets and mosapride tablets.