Mucus in the stool is normal but it is not usually visible. When there is enough mucus in the stool to be seen with the naked eye, it could be a sign that something in the digestive system is changing. Mucus in the stool may be considered a common symptom of some digestive conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome IBS and ulcerative colitis one form of inflammatory bowel disease , or IBD. Other conditions that can cause larger amounts of visible mucus in the stool include bacterial infections, anal fissures, a bowel obstruction , or Crohn's disease the second main form of IBD.
If the stool is also bloody and there is pain, that's a reason to get in touch with a healthcare provider right away. Normally, mucus is a stringy, clear, white, or yellow substance. Although it may seem gross and cause worry, it's important to understand the reasons for any changes in stool in order to better address them.
Mucus is produced by the mucus membrane of the large intestine. Mucus is also produced by other organs in the body, such as the lungs, where it helps to trap any foreign particles that are inhaled. In the intestines, mucus protects the inner lining, and because it's slippery, it helps ease along the passage of stool. Passing mucus in the stool is not harmful in and of itself, because it is a normal part of stool, but too much could also be a sign of a disease or condition that may require treatment.
If the mucus layer is shedding too much, it could make the colon more susceptible to bacteria. Several conditions can lead to visible mucus in the stool. In ulcerative colitis, the mucus membrane of the large intestine colon becomes inflamed and develops small sores that are called ulcers.
These ulcers bleed and may also produce pus and mucus. The mucus may be voluminous enough that it can be seen as it is passed along with the stool.
The reasons why IBS may cause more mucus to be produced by the lining of the large intestine and excreted in stool haven't been studied extensively, so they're not well understood. Passing mucus in the stool is a less frequent occurrence in people who have Crohn's disease.
If mucus is seen in the stool of a person who has Crohn's disease, it could be associated with developing an anal fissure. An abscess is an infection that creates an area filled with pus inside the body.
It's a problem that tends to occur more often in people with Crohn's disease, and particularly in the perianal area. Sometimes, in about 50 percent of cases, an abscess will get large enough to form a tunnel between two organs, or between the skin and an organ, which is a fistula. The abscess or fistula may drain mucus into the stool. Abscesses and fistulas will need treatment, potentially being drained and usually with the addition of antibiotics or other medications, particularly if there's a diagnosis of IBD.
Some people who have had ostomy surgery either ileostomy or colostomy may find that they pass mucus from their rectum. Even though stool is leaving the body through the stoma, and not through the rectum and the anus, the rectum is still producing fluids. There could be mucus, which will need to be passed by sitting on the toilet.
A build-up of mucus could cause discomfort and pressure. Bacterial infections, such as those from bacteria such as Campylobacter, Salmonella, Shigella, or Yersinia , may cause mucus to be passed in the stool.
A bacterial infection may also cause symptoms of diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Some bacterial infections may resolve on their own without treatment, but other cases may be serious and require treatment with antibiotics.
If you think you may have contracted a bacterial infection, especially after traveling abroad, contact your healthcare provider. A bowel obstruction could be caused by one of many conditions, such as impacted stool, adhesions scar tissue , a hernia, gallstones, a tumor, or swallowing a non-food item. Obstructions are typically treated in the hospital, while surgery to remove the blockage is necessary in some cases.
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This content does not have an Arabic version. See more conditions. Request Appointment. Mucus in stool: A concern? Products and services. What causes mucus in stool?
Is this a concern? Answer From Elizabeth Rajan, M. It is possible, but rare, to have more than one microbe present at a time. A stool sample may not be needed, however.
After an initial physical exam, the doctor may request blood samples before a stool test. This whole-body approach makes it easier to detect what may be going on. If further investigation is required, undergoing a colonoscopy, endoscopy , or even a CT may be necessary to diagnose and treat the problem correctly. Bacteria found in the stool will sometimes be treated with antibiotics, and resting will help to pass and heal the symptoms.
Eating habits may need to change to lessen the chances of catching a bug again. This approach is also the case with a food allergy. Should one be present, lifestyle changes need to occur quickly. In some instances, prescription medication and ongoing treatment will need to be taken. Surgery may be required for those with anal fissures and rectal ulcers. Some over-the-counter probiotics and supplements can help those with irregular daily bowel movements, constipation, or diarrhea.
If you want to buy probiotics, then there is an excellent selection online with thousands of customer reviews. People should speak with a doctor or pharmacist before taking medication. Keeping a journal may help people with frequent and persistent mucus in their stool to note patterns. This tool is very helpful for doctors as well.
It is normal for a certain amount of mucus to be expelled in feces, however larger amounts can be a sign of an underlying condition. Anyone who has recently taken a course of antibiotics or been ill may notice that levels of mucus in the stool are altered. If the levels do not return to normal within a few weeks, it is important to see a doctor.
Anyone who notices excess mucus and experiences other gastrointestinal issues should track their symptoms, how long they have been going on for, and what makes them improve or worsen. This can help a doctor create a clearer picture of what might be causing the changes. Read this article in Spanish. Although blood in a baby's stool is usually not an emergency, a medical diagnosis is vital. Learn about the potential causes of blood in baby stool….
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach's lining. Food intolerances and allergies, such as to lactose, fructose, sucrose, or gluten, cause inflammation of the intestinal walls when food comes into contact with the mucosa, increasing mucus production, which can be observed in the stools.
In these cases, there may be other symptoms too, such as swelling of the belly, diarrhea, red spots on the skin, excessive gas, or constipation. Gastroenteritis occurs when a type of microorganism, such as a bacteria or a virus, infects the stomach and intestine, causing intense nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite and pain in the belly, in addition to excess mucus in the stools.
This type of problem usually occurs when contaminated food or water is ingested, but it can also happen after prolonged use of antibiotics. An irritable bowel causes inflammation of the intestinal mucosa that increases the amount of mucus in the stools.
Although this can happen in all cases of irritable bowel syndrome, mucus is more common in people who have long bouts of diarrhea. Other common symptoms of those suffering from irritable bowel include excess gas, swollen belly, and bouts of diarrhea that alternate with constipation, especially during periods of high stress or anxiety.
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