Any alteration in bowel habits should be checked by a GP. Particularly if there is blood. Many things can alter the texture and content of poo but best to chat with a GP or Nurse.
Do you do the over 60s poo test kit that arrives in the post?
Maybe jot down what you eat/drink for 7 days: everything! to see how you diet has altered.
My variations are 'within normal limits' for me. I feel the need to empty the bowel every day but that doesn't always happen. Even when I've been the bowel often does not feel empty. Certain foods give me a well deserved rush, either the next morning or a couple of days later. This often involves more bowel action throughout the day so I keep close to the house
I know what is 'normal' 4 me. Sometimes it's difficult to pass, others it's small ploppy bits and very often when anxious
you really wouldn't want to know
. After I've been in a hurry due to anxiety, about 2 hours later I feel quite ill as the digestive tract begins to re-fill which causes my bowel to want to empty: usually in a crowded place
. Like there's a gap below the belly button.
And don't get me started on what gives I wind