Expert Care for Ongoing Constipation, Diarrhea, and Irregular Bowel Habits in Tomball
Constipation and diarrhea are two of the most common digestive complaints, and many people experience both at different times. Constipation means infrequent, hard, or difficult-to-pass stools, while diarrhea means loose, watery, or urgent stools. Occasional changes are normal, but ongoing or alternating symptoms may point to a condition that needs evaluation.
Common causes include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a low-fiber diet, dehydration, medications, infections, and food intolerances, as well as conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or thyroid problems. When constipation and diarrhea alternate, IBS is a frequent cause, though a proper evaluation is important to be sure.
Constipation and diarrhea are often linked to IBS, IBD (Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis), infections, and medication side effects. Most cases are not serious, but certain warning signs should never be ignored: blood in the stool, black or tarry stools, unexplained weight loss, severe abdominal pain, fever, or symptoms lasting more than a few weeks. See a gastroenterologist promptly if you notice any of these.
At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic, evaluation begins with a detailed discussion of symptoms, diet, medical history, medications, and lifestyle factors. Diagnostic evaluation may include:
Comprehensive Medical History
Understanding symptom patterns often provides valuable clues.
Blood Testing
Laboratory studies may help identify:
H. pylori Testing
Testing may be recommended when stomach-related symptoms are present.
SIBO Breath Testing
Used to evaluate bacterial overgrowth within the small intestine.
Colonoscopy
May be recommended depending on age, symptoms, family history, and risk factors.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
Can help evaluate reflux, gastritis, ulcers, and upper digestive tract disorders.
Dr. Saranya Addepally is a board-certified gastroenterologist with six years of clinical experience, treating a broad range of digestive and liver conditions. She is especially passionate about women’s GI health—areas where patients often feel overlooked or hesitant to seek care.
Her medical journey began in India, where she completed her training before moving to the United States to pursue advanced education in medicine and Gastroenterology at the University of Arkansas.
After several years in practice, she relocated to Houston to continue serving patients in the community. Following two years with a local group, she established her own practice, grounded in the principles and core values she believes are essential to delivering thoughtful, patient-centered care.
They can be caused by IBS, diet, dehydration, medications, infections, food intolerances, or conditions like IBD or thyroid disease.
Yes. Many people with IBS alternate between constipation and diarrhea, which is known as IBS with mixed bowel habits.
See a doctor if diarrhea lasts more than a few days, contains blood, or comes with fever, severe pain, or signs of dehydration.
Most adults need about 25 to 35 grams of fiber a day. Increasing fiber gradually, along with plenty of water, helps prevent constipation.
See a gastroenterologist if symptoms last more than a few weeks, keep returning, or come with blood in the stool or weight loss.
Possibly. A colonoscopy may be recommended based on your symptoms, age, and risk factors to rule out conditions like IBD or colon cancer.
Treatment works best when it targets the underlying cause and restores healthy, regular bowel habits. After identifying the cause, your gastroenterologist builds a personalized plan that may include:
At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic, we provide:
There is no single “quick fix” for irregular bowels, but real relief is very achievable. See a gastroenterologist if symptoms last more than a few weeks or come with warning signs like blood in the stool or weight loss. At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic we focus on practical, lasting solutions. To help keep your bowels regular:
Offering Fast Track GI appointments
Specialized Gastroenterology Appointments Within 3–5 Business Days
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