- With Mayo Clinic gastroenterologist
Michael Picco, M.D.
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Michael Picco, M.D.
Michael Picco, M.D.
Dr. Michael F. Picco has been with Mayo Clinic since 1999. He is board certified in internal medicine and gastroenterology. Dr. Picco is an assistant professor of medicine at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and a consultant in gastroenterology at Mayo Clinic in Florida.
He has authored numerous publications in the area of gastroenterology, including original research, editorials and textbook chapters. He works with a team of gastroenterologists that takes care of complex gastrointestinal conditions and has a particular interest in diarrheal illnesses and inflammatory bowel diseases (ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease). He is also active in medical education in training new gastroenterologist and internists.
"MayoClinic.com is an invaluable resource for patients and their families," Dr. Picco said. "Informed patients are better able to participate in their own health care. A patient's participation is vital to the treatment of his or her disease. I hope to assist in helping patients understand their digestive problems and current treatments that are offered. This will allow for better communication between patients, their physicians and other health care professionals."
Dr. Picco serves as a reviewer of new research for several medical journals in the area of gastroenterology and is an active member of the American Gastroenterological Association, American College of Gastroenterology and the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America. He serves on numerous committees that address physician training, research and clinical practice in gastroenterology, both at Mayo Clinic and at the national level.
"Patients need to know about their disease, what to expect, the latest treatments and side effects so that they can make informed decisions about their health care. Gastrointestinal disease affects not only patients but also their families. My goal is to assure that our Web site provides accurate, reliable information and resources for patients. We must always provide the latest, most cutting-edge information to assist patients in dealing with their medical problems," Dr. Picco said.
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Question
Frequent bowel movements: Should I be concerned?
Over the past month or so, my bowel movements have increased from once a day to three times a day. My stool is not runny or watery. Should I be concerned?
Answer
from Michael Picco, M.D.
There is no "normal" frequency for bowel movements. Depending on the individual, "normal" may range from three times a week to three times a day. An increase in the frequency of bowel movements without diarrhea can have many possible causes, and by itself isn't necessarily a health concern.
A common cause of more frequent bowel movements is changes in diet, such as eating more fruits and vegetables. Less commonly, an increase in stool frequency may be due to colon polyps, colon cancer, hyperthyroidism or a side effect of medication, such as certain antibiotics.
You should discuss any persistent changes in your bowel habits — especially if symptoms are accompanied by blood in your stool, abdominal pain or weight loss — with your doctor.
