Brief Answer: Few tests would possibly be required. Detailed Answer: Hi XXXXX ! Good morning. I am Dr Shareef answering your query. I would like to know about your dietary habit. Do you eat frequently from outside ? In that case, amebiasis is a very common infection which creeps into the intestines from outside food, which may give rise to such symptoms. A course of anti amebic drug may relieve you of your symptoms. If I were your doctor, I would advise you for a routine stool test for ova and cyst, and also a per rectal examination followed by a colonoscopy if need be, for your age group. Going once for defeacation once in the morning might be a normal habit with many and you need not get too worried for it, excepting for the stool size being narrow specially if it is a recent development. I would also advise you to go for a high roughage diet with enough of liquids ad fruits. Go for daily morning walk as a routine if there is no medical contraindication. I hope this information would help you in discussing with your family physician on further management of the problem. In case of any further doubt, please do not hesitate to ask. Thanks for using XXXXXXX for you query on health. Wishing you an early relief of your symptoms. Thanks. Dr Shareef.

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