Intestinal gas results from food fermentation and from swallowing air while eating. The bloating from intestinal gas is different from that which occurs in the colon. Constipation is the decreased frequency or slowing of peristalsis resulting in harder stools. When the gastrointestinal tract is slowed down, feces can accumulate in the colon with attending pain and toxic reactions. Some patients experience painful days of constipation followed by forceful diarrhea and watery stool, often accompanied with abdominal cramps.
Diarrhea is the increased frequency of bowel movement that is also loose or watery.
If diarrhea increases, the possibility of celiac disease is considered. Celiac disease is a serious disease that allows certain macromolecules to pass through the intestinal wall. If blood appears in the stool, ulcerative colitis is likely. Protracted bouts with diarrhea can result in nutritional deficiencies due to the malabsorption of essential nutrients. Abdominal pain appears in different patterns and with varying intensities.