What are the causes of black stinky poop. How to identify bloody or tarry stools. When should you seek medical attention for black stools. What are the treatment options for gastrointestinal bleeding. How to prevent black stools and maintain digestive health.

Understanding Black Stinky Poop: A Sign of Upper Digestive Tract Issues

Black or tarry stools with a foul odor are often indicative of a problem in the upper digestive tract. This condition, medically known as melena, typically suggests bleeding in the stomach, small intestine, or right side of the colon. Understanding the causes and implications of black stinky poop is crucial for early detection and treatment of potential gastrointestinal issues.

What causes black stinky poop?

The primary cause of black stinky poop is the presence of digested blood in the stool. When bleeding occurs in the upper gastrointestinal tract, the blood becomes partially digested as it moves through the digestive system, resulting in a black, tarry appearance and a distinctively foul odor.

Common causes of upper gastrointestinal bleeding

• Peptic ulcers
• Esophageal varices
• Gastritis
• Esophageal tears (Mallory-Weiss syndrome)
• Gastrointestinal cancers

The Digestive Process and Its Role in Black Stools

To understand the phenomenon of black stinky poop, it’s essential to grasp the basics of the digestive process. The journey of food through the body involves multiple organs working in harmony to break down nutrients and eliminate waste.

Key stages of digestion

1. Esophageal transport: Food moves from the mouth to the stomach
2. Stomach processing: Mixing of food and initial protein breakdown
3. Small intestine digestion: Further breakdown and nutrient absorption
4. Large intestine function: Temporary storage and concentration of waste

During this process, any bleeding in the upper digestive tract can lead to the formation of black, tarry stools as the blood is digested along with food particles.

Differentiating Between True Melena and False Alarms

It’s important to note that not all black stools are caused by internal bleeding. Certain foods and medications can also lead to a darkening of the stool, potentially causing unnecessary concern.

Common causes of harmless black stools

• Black licorice consumption
• Blueberries
• Blood sausage
• Iron supplements
• Activated charcoal
• Bismuth-containing medications (e.g., Pepto-Bismol)

In cases where these factors are present, a doctor can perform a simple chemical test on the stool to rule out the presence of blood, providing peace of mind to the patient.

Recognizing the Signs of Gastrointestinal Bleeding

While black stinky poop is a primary indicator of upper GI bleeding, there are other symptoms that may accompany this condition. Being aware of these signs can help in early detection and prompt medical intervention.

Additional symptoms of GI bleeding

• Fatigue and weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Vomiting blood (hematemesis)
• Lightheadedness or fainting

If you experience any of these symptoms alongside black, tarry stools, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

Diagnostic Procedures for Identifying the Source of Bleeding

When black stinky poop is observed, healthcare providers employ various diagnostic tools to pinpoint the exact location and cause of the bleeding. These procedures are essential for developing an effective treatment plan.

Common diagnostic methods

• Stool sample analysis
• Blood tests
• Upper endoscopy
• Colonoscopy
• Capsule endoscopy

Capsule endoscopy is a particularly innovative method that involves swallowing a small camera-equipped capsule. This device captures images of the digestive tract, allowing doctors to visualize areas that may be difficult to reach with traditional endoscopy.

Treatment Options for Gastrointestinal Bleeding

The treatment for black stinky poop depends on the underlying cause of the bleeding. Once the source is identified, healthcare providers can recommend appropriate interventions to stop the bleeding and prevent future occurrences.

Potential treatment approaches

• Medication therapy (e.g., proton pump inhibitors for ulcers)
• Endoscopic procedures to cauterize bleeding vessels
• Surgical intervention for severe cases
• Blood transfusions for significant blood loss
• Lifestyle modifications to reduce risk factors

In some cases, such as with Mallory-Weiss tears, the condition may resolve on its own within a short period, typically around 10 days, without requiring specific treatment.

Preventing Black Stools and Maintaining Digestive Health

While not all causes of black stinky poop are preventable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing gastrointestinal bleeding and maintain overall digestive health.

Tips for digestive wellness

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fiber
• Stay hydrated
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Avoid smoking
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques
• Exercise regularly
• Use medications, particularly NSAIDs, as directed by your healthcare provider

By adopting these healthy habits, you can support your digestive system and potentially reduce the risk of developing conditions that lead to black, tarry stools.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Black Stools

While occasional changes in stool color can be harmless, persistent black, tarry stools or those accompanied by other concerning symptoms warrant prompt medical evaluation. Understanding when to seek help can be crucial in addressing potential health issues early.

Situations requiring immediate medical attention

• Black, tarry stools lasting more than a day or two
• Accompanying symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, fever, or vomiting
• Signs of significant blood loss (dizziness, fainting, rapid heartbeat)
• Known history of gastrointestinal disorders with sudden onset of black stools
• Recent use of blood-thinning medications coinciding with black stools

Remember, early detection and treatment of gastrointestinal bleeding can prevent more serious complications and improve overall outcomes.

What to expect during a medical evaluation?

When you visit a healthcare provider for black stinky poop, they will likely perform a comprehensive assessment. This may include:

• Detailed medical history review
• Physical examination
• Stool sample analysis
• Blood tests to check for anemia and other markers
• Possible imaging studies or endoscopic procedures

Be prepared to provide information about your symptoms, recent diet, medication use, and any relevant medical history to assist in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

The Impact of Diet on Stool Color and Consistency

While we’ve discussed how certain foods can cause harmless black stools, it’s worth exploring the broader impact of diet on stool characteristics. Understanding this relationship can help individuals differentiate between dietary-induced changes and potential health concerns.

How different foods affect stool color

• Red or purple foods (beets, red gelatin) can cause reddish stools
• Green leafy vegetables may lead to green-tinged stools
• High-fat diets can result in pale, greasy stools
• Iron-rich foods or supplements often darken stools

It’s important to note that while these dietary factors can influence stool appearance, persistent changes or those accompanied by other symptoms should still be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Dietary factors affecting stool consistency

The consistency of your stool can also provide insights into your digestive health and dietary habits:

• High fiber intake typically leads to softer, more frequent stools
• Inadequate hydration can result in hard, difficult-to-pass stools
• Excessive dairy consumption may cause loose stools in lactose-intolerant individuals
• Spicy or fatty foods can sometimes lead to diarrhea in sensitive individuals

Maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated can help promote regular, healthy bowel movements and potentially reduce the risk of digestive issues.

Long-term Management of Conditions Causing Black Stools

For individuals diagnosed with chronic conditions that may lead to recurrent episodes of black, tarry stools, long-term management strategies are essential. These approaches aim to prevent complications and improve quality of life.

Management strategies for chronic gastrointestinal conditions

• Regular follow-up appointments with gastroenterologists
• Adherence to prescribed medication regimens
• Dietary modifications based on individual needs and triggers
• Stress management techniques
• Lifestyle adjustments (e.g., smoking cessation, alcohol reduction)
• Monitoring for signs of recurrence or worsening symptoms

Patients with conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, chronic peptic ulcers, or liver cirrhosis may require ongoing care and vigilance to manage their health effectively.

Importance of patient education and self-monitoring

Empowering patients with knowledge about their condition and teaching them to recognize warning signs can greatly improve outcomes. Key aspects of patient education include:

• Understanding normal vs. abnormal stool characteristics
• Recognizing early signs of potential complications
• Proper use of prescribed medications and their potential side effects
• Importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle
• When and how to seek medical attention if concerns arise

By actively participating in their care, patients can work collaboratively with healthcare providers to manage their condition effectively and minimize the risk of serious complications.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Gastrointestinal Health

The field of gastroenterology is constantly evolving, with new research shedding light on digestive health and potential treatment options. Staying informed about these developments can provide hope and new perspectives for individuals dealing with chronic gastrointestinal issues.

Recent advancements in digestive health research

• Microbiome studies and their impact on overall health
• Novel drug therapies for inflammatory bowel diseases
• Minimally invasive surgical techniques for gastrointestinal disorders
• Artificial intelligence applications in diagnostic procedures
• Personalized medicine approaches for digestive health

These areas of research hold promise for improved diagnosis, treatment, and management of conditions that may lead to black, tarry stools and other gastrointestinal symptoms.

Potential future developments

Looking ahead, several exciting possibilities are on the horizon for gastrointestinal health:

• Advanced imaging techniques for early detection of GI cancers
• Gene therapy for hereditary gastrointestinal disorders
• Gut microbiome manipulation as a therapeutic approach
• Nanotechnology applications in drug delivery and diagnostics
• Virtual reality tools for patient education and symptom management

While these developments are still in various stages of research and development, they highlight the ongoing efforts to improve our understanding and treatment of gastrointestinal disorders.

The Psychological Impact of Chronic Gastrointestinal Issues

Dealing with recurrent black, tarry stools or other persistent gastrointestinal symptoms can have a significant impact on an individual’s mental health and quality of life. Recognizing and addressing these psychological aspects is crucial for comprehensive patient care.

Common psychological challenges

• Anxiety related to symptom recurrence or worsening
• Depression due to chronic illness and lifestyle limitations
• Social isolation stemming from embarrassment or physical discomfort
• Body image issues, particularly in conditions affecting weight or appearance
• Stress from managing complex treatment regimens

Healthcare providers should be attentive to these psychological aspects and provide appropriate support or referrals when necessary.

Strategies for coping and improving quality of life

Individuals dealing with chronic gastrointestinal issues can employ various strategies to manage the psychological impact:

• Joining support groups to connect with others facing similar challenges
• Practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques
• Engaging in regular physical activity, as medically appropriate
• Seeking professional counseling or therapy when needed
• Maintaining open communication with healthcare providers about emotional well-being

By addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of gastrointestinal health, patients can work towards a more balanced and fulfilling life despite their medical challenges.

In conclusion, understanding the causes, implications, and management of black stinky poop is essential for maintaining digestive health and overall well-being. By staying informed, recognizing warning signs, and working closely with healthcare providers, individuals can navigate gastrointestinal issues effectively and maintain a good quality of life. Remember, while changes in stool color can be alarming, many causes are treatable, and early intervention often leads to the best outcomes.

Bloody or tarry stools Information | Mount Sinai

Stools – bloody; Melena; Stools – black or tarry; Upper gastrointestinal bleeding; Melenic stools

Black or tarry stools with a foul smell are a sign of a problem in the upper digestive tract. It most often indicates that there is bleeding in the stomach, small intestine, or right side of the colon.

The term melena is used to describe this finding.

The process of digesting food is accomplished by many organs in the body. Food is pushed by the esophagus into the stomach. The stomach mixes the food and begins the breakdown of proteins. The stomach propels the food then into the small intestine. The small intestine further digests food and begins the absorption of nutrients. Secretions from the pancreas in the small intestine help neutralize the acid in the intestine to provide a proper environment for the enzymes to function. Bile from the gallbladder and liver emulsify fat and enhance the absorption of fatty acids. The large intestine temporarily stores and concentrates the remainder until it is passed out as waste from the body.

Peptic ulcers may lead to emergency situations. Severe abdominal pain with or without evidence of bleeding may indicate a perforation of the ulcer through the stomach or duodenum. Vomiting of a substance that resembles coffee grounds, or the presence of black tarry stools, may indicate serious bleeding.

A Mallory-Weiss tear results from prolonged and forceful vomiting, coughing or convulsions. Typically the mucous membrane at the junction of the esophagus and the stomach develops lacerations which bleed, evident by bright red blood in vomitus, or bloody stools. It may occur as a result of excessive alcohol ingestion. This is an acute condition which usually resolves within 10 days without special treatment.

Capsule endoscopy is a test procedure in which a camera inside a small capsule takes pictures of the lining of your digestive system. The capsule is about the size of a large vitamin pill. After swallowing it, the capsule travels the length of your digestive system and transmits images to a wearable recorder.

Considerations

Eating black licorice, blueberries, blood sausage or taking iron pills, activated charcoal, or medicines that contain bismuth (such as Pepto-Bismol), can also cause black stools. Beets and foods with red coloring can sometimes make stools appear reddish. In all these cases, your doctor can test the stool with a chemical to rule out the presence of blood.

Bleeding in the esophagus or stomach (such as with peptic ulcer disease) can also cause you to vomit blood.

Causes

The color of the blood in the stools can indicate the source of bleeding.

• Black or tarry stools may be due to bleeding in the upper part of the GI (gastrointestinal) tract, such as the esophagus, stomach, or the first part of the small intestine. In this case, blood is darker because it gets digested on its way through the GI tract.
• Red or fresh blood in the stools (rectal bleeding), is a sign of bleeding from the lower GI tract (rectum and anus).

Peptic ulcers are the most common cause of acute upper GI bleeding. Black and tarry stools may also occur due to:

• Abnormal blood vessels in the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum
• A tear in the esophagus from violent vomiting (Mallory-Weiss tear)
• Blood supply being cut off to part of the intestines
• Inflammation of the stomach lining (gastritis)
• Trauma or foreign body
• Widened, overgrown veins (called varices) in the esophagus and stomach, commonly caused by liver cirrhosis
• Cancer of the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, or ampulla of Vater

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your health care provider right away if:

• You notice blood or changes in the color of your stool
• You vomit blood
• You feel dizzy or lightheaded

In children, a small amount of blood in the stool is most often not serious. The most common cause is constipation. You should still tell your child’s provider if you notice this problem.

What to Expect at Your Office Visit

Your provider will take a medical history and perform a physical exam. The exam will focus on your abdomen.

You may be asked the following questions:

• Are you taking blood thinners, such as aspirin, warfarin, Eliquis, Pradaxa, Xarelto, or clopidogrel, or similar medicines? Are you taking an NSAID, such as ibuprofen or naproxen?
• Have you had any trauma or swallowed a foreign object accidentally?
• Have you eaten black licorice, lead, Pepto-Bismol, or blueberries?
• Have you had more than one episode of blood in your stool? Is every stool this way?
• Have you lost any weight recently?
• Is there blood on the toilet paper only?
• What color is the stool?
• When did the problem develop?
• What other symptoms are present (abdominal pain, vomiting blood, bloating, excessive gas, diarrhea, or fever)? 

You may need to have one or more tests to look for the cause:

• Angiography
• Bleeding scan (nuclear medicine)
• Blood studies, including a complete blood count (CBC) and differential, serum chemistries, clotting studies
• Colonoscopy
• Esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD
• Stool culture
• Tests for the presence of Helicobacter pylori infection
• Capsule endoscopy (a pill with a built in camera that takes a video of the small intestine)
• Double balloon enteroscopy (a scope that can reach the parts of the small intestine that are not able to be reached with EGD or colonoscopy)

Severe cases of bleeding that cause excessive blood loss and a drop in blood pressure may require surgery or hospitalization.

Chaptini L, Peikin S. Gastrointestinal bleeding. In: Parrillo JE, Dellinger RP, eds. Critical Care Medicine: Principles of Diagnosis and Management in the Adult. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019:chap 72.

DeGeorge LM, Nable JV. Gastrointestinal bleeding. In: Walls RM, ed. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 26.

Kovacs TO, Jensen DM. Gastrointestinal hemorrhage. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 26th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 126.

Savides TJ, Jensen DM. Gastrointestinal bleeding. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran’s Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 20.

Last reviewed on: 5/4/2022

Reviewed by: Michael M. Phillips, MD, Emeritus Professor of Medicine, The George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Black or tarry stools: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia

Black or tarry stools with a foul smell are a sign of a problem in the upper digestive tract. It most often indicates that there is bleeding in the stomach, small intestine, or right side of the colon.

The term melena is used to describe this finding.

Eating black licorice, blueberries, blood sausage or taking iron pills, activated charcoal, or medicines that contain bismuth (such as Pepto-Bismol), can also cause black stools. Beets and foods with red coloring can sometimes make stools appear reddish. In all these cases, your doctor can test the stool with a chemical to rule out the presence of blood.

Bleeding in the esophagus or stomach (such as with peptic ulcer disease) can also cause you to vomit blood.

The color of the blood in the stools can indicate the source of bleeding.

• Black or tarry stools may be due to bleeding in the upper part of the GI (gastrointestinal) tract, such as the esophagus, stomach, or the first part of the small intestine. In this case, blood is darker because it gets digested on its way through the GI tract.
• Red or fresh blood in the stools (rectal bleeding), is a sign of bleeding from the lower GI tract (rectum and anus).

Peptic ulcers are the most common cause of acute upper GI bleeding. Black and tarry stools may also occur due to:

• Abnormal blood vessels in the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum
• A tear in the esophagus from violent vomiting (Mallory-Weiss tear)
• Blood supply being cut off to part of the intestines
• Inflammation of the stomach lining (gastritis)
• Trauma or foreign body
• Widened, overgrown veins (called varices) in the esophagus and stomach, commonly caused by liver cirrhosis
• Cancer of the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, or ampulla of Vater

Contact your health care provider right away if:

• You notice blood or changes in the color of your stool
• You vomit blood
• You feel dizzy or lightheaded

In children, a small amount of blood in the stool is most often not serious. The most common cause is constipation. You should still tell your child’s provider if you notice this problem.

Your provider will take a medical history and perform a physical exam. The exam will focus on your abdomen.

You may be asked the following questions:

• Are you taking blood thinners, such as aspirin, warfarin, Eliquis, Pradaxa, Xarelto, or clopidogrel, or similar medicines? Are you taking an NSAID, such as ibuprofen or naproxen?
• Have you had any trauma or swallowed a foreign object accidentally?
• Have you eaten black licorice, lead, Pepto-Bismol, or blueberries?
• Have you had more than one episode of blood in your stool? Is every stool this way?
• Have you lost any weight recently?
• Is there blood on the toilet paper only?
• What color is the stool?
• When did the problem develop?
• What other symptoms are present (abdominal pain, vomiting blood, bloating, excessive gas, diarrhea, or fever)? 

You may need to have one or more tests to look for the cause:

• Angiography
• Bleeding scan (nuclear medicine)
• Blood studies, including a complete blood count (CBC) and differential, serum chemistries, clotting studies
• Colonoscopy
• Esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD
• Stool culture
• Tests for the presence of Helicobacter pylori infection
• Capsule endoscopy (a pill with a built in camera that takes a video of the small intestine)
• Double balloon enteroscopy (a scope that can reach the parts of the small intestine that are not able to be reached with EGD or colonoscopy)

Severe cases of bleeding that cause excessive blood loss and a drop in blood pressure may require surgery or hospitalization.

Stools – bloody; Melena; Stools – black or tarry; Upper gastrointestinal bleeding; Melenic stools

• Diverticulitis and diverticulosis – discharge
• Diverticulitis – what to ask your doctor
• Ulcerative colitis – discharge

• Abdominal organs
• Ulcer emergencies
• Mallory-Weiss tear
• Capsule endoscopy

Chaptini L, Peikin S. Gastrointestinal bleeding. In: Parrillo JE, Dellinger RP, eds. Critical Care Medicine: Principles of Diagnosis and Management in the Adult. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019:chap 72.

DeGeorge LM, Nable JV. Gastrointestinal bleeding. In: Walls RM, ed. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 26.

Kovacs TO, Jensen DM. Gastrointestinal hemorrhage. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 26th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 126.

Savides TJ, Jensen DM. Gastrointestinal bleeding. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran’s Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 20.

Updated by: Michael M. Phillips, MD, Emeritus Professor of Medicine, The George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Mucus in the stool: white, yellow or brown mucus in the stool causes mucus in the stool

Mucus is a thick, slippery substance that is produced in various human organs. Mucus in the intestines is needed in order to moisturize the mucous membrane and ensure the free passage of feces. Therefore, a small amount of it in the feces is not a cause for concern. But mucus in the stool in an adult in large quantities, especially in combination with other symptoms, may indicate some diseases of the digestive tract. Sometimes malignant tumors appear this way.

Causes of mucus in the stool

An increase in the amount of mucus in the stool can be associated with various pathologies. Some of them are chronic and pose a serious threat. Most often it is associated with inflammatory processes. For example, mucus in the feces combined with diarrhea is a classic manifestation of many intestinal infections. The appearance of blood impurities and pain in the abdomen may indicate more serious diseases, such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or a malignant neoplasm.

Symptoms to look out for when mucus appears in the stool

A serious illness can be indicated by a large amount of mucus (sometimes even patients themselves describe this symptom as “mucus instead of feces”) and its frequent appearance in stool, as well as a combination this symptom with other manifestations:

• admixture of blood in the stool;
• black tarry stools – melena;
• diarrhea – frequent and loose stools;
• abdominal pain.

If jelly-like mucus in the stool is combined with these signs, you need to visit a doctor and get an examination.

Most often, mucus is excreted with feces. But sometimes it appears in the intervals between bowel movements. When mucus is released without feces in an adult, this may indicate an inflammatory process in the intestines and a low tone of the sphincter – a circular muscle in the rectum.

What diseases cause mucus in the stool?

Irritable bowel syndrome – a functional disorder, when there are no pathological formations in the intestine, but its work is disturbed. The main manifestation is constipation, diarrhea, or their alternation. The appearance of such a symptom as feces with mucus in an adult is also very typical. In general, a combination of symptoms such as constipation and mucus in the stool, you should definitely consult a doctor.

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that can be severe and lead to the development of malignant tumors. The lesion can spread to all parts of the digestive tract – starting with the oral cavity and ending with the rectum. At the same time, there is often clear mucus in the feces of an adult.

Ulcerative colitis also belongs to the group of inflammatory bowel diseases and leads to the formation of ulcers on the mucous membrane. They bleed, secrete pus and mucus – all these impurities are present in the stool. Other characteristic symptoms of the disease: pain and cramps in the abdomen, diarrhea.

Proctitis – inflammation in the rectum. It develops as a result of various infections (including sexually transmitted infections), injuries, hemorrhoids, and inflammatory bowel diseases. White mucus in the stool in an adult is one of the characteristic symptoms.

Pseudomembranous colitis is a serious infectious disease affecting the rectum. It is caused by the microorganism clostridioides difficile, usually after the normal intestinal microflora has been destroyed by antibiotics. Pseudomembranous colitis can cause severe, even life-threatening diarrhea, with mucus in adult stools and foul-smelling stools.

Food poisoning usually presents with flu-like symptoms, blood and large amounts of mucus in the stool. It usually goes away within a few days, but in some cases it can be serious.

Intestinal infections and helminths can also cause mucus in the faeces.

Colon and rectal cancer. The leading symptom of the disease is the admixture of blood in the feces. But feces with white mucus may also appear.

Anal fistulas or rectal ulcers . Ulcers are mucosal defects, and fistulas are pathological communications between the gut and the skin surface. In both cases, feces often have an unpleasant odor, and mucus is excreted with it in large quantities.

Allergic colitis most often occurs in young children as a reaction to cow’s milk. In this case, feces often contain a lot of mucus.

Discoloration of stools and mucus

Yellow stools with mucus can be a manifestation of many conditions, from a diet high in fatty foods to intestinal infections, problems with the liver and pancreas, giardiasis, Crohn’s disease. In general, yellow mucus in feces is a fairly common occurrence. The doctor will be able to determine its cause after the examination. Yellow mucus from the anus should be the reason for seeking medical help from a specialist.

Green mucus in the stool is highly likely to indicate an intestinal infection caused by pathogenic bacteria.

When should I see a doctor?

Mucus in the feces and other bowel symptoms do not always indicate a malignant tumor. Most often, other, less dangerous, diseases manifest themselves in this way. But you can find out the exact diagnosis and exclude oncological pathology only after the examination. Therefore, if thick mucus appears in the stool, you should not delay a visit to the doctor.

Examination for the appearance of mucus in the stool

To find out why mucus appeared in the feces, the doctor may prescribe the following diagnostic methods:

• Complete blood count.
• Fecal analysis – coprogram.
• Fecal analysis for infections, helminth eggs.
• Fecal occult blood test.
• Colonoscopy is an endoscopic procedure in which the mucous membrane of the rectum and colon is examined using an instrument in the form of a thin flexible hose (colonoscope) inserted through the anus.
• Sigmoidoscopy – endoscopic examination of the rectum and sigmoid colon.
• Endoscopic examination of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum.
• Video capsule endoscopy is an alternative to classic endoscopic studies of the digestive tract. The patient is asked to swallow a small capsule containing miniature video cameras. This capsule will pass through the intestines, “examine” its mucous membrane and leave the body naturally.
• CT, MRI.

Whatever disease causes mucus in the feces, it is better to diagnose it at an early stage. You can check the condition of your digestive organs using the comprehensive program “Gastrointestinal tract” at the Euroonco clinic. This program includes all the main instrumental and laboratory diagnostic methods, as well as consultations from our leading specialist doctors.

Appointment for a consultation around the clock

+7 (495) 668-82-28

Sources:

1. https://www.webmd.com/
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/
3. https://www.healthgrades.com/
4. https://www.1-clinic.ru/

Mucus and liquid from the anus – what are the symptoms

1. Main
2. Symptoms and diseases
3. Mucus, liquid from the anus

from many reasons and factors, but if there is an excessive release of fluid, then this may indicate the presence of serious proctological diseases.

If you find yourself secreting an excessive amount of mucus from the anus, then this is a sure sign that you have a proctological disease. Most often, this symptom goes together with others, such as constipation, bloating (flatulence) and others.

In order not to aggravate the situation and not to miss the transition of the disease to a chronic form, it is necessary to undergo an examination by a proctologist.

Make an appointment with a proctologist

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• Causes
• Diagnosis
• Treatment

Causes of mucus discharge from the anus

Mucus from the anus is often caused by inflammation of the hemorrhoids – hemorrhoids swarm. This disease is characterized by blood from the anus, burning, itching, difficulty defecation.

The vascular system plays an important role in the development of pathology: the nodes increase with an increased inflow of arterial blood and a weakening of its outflow. Also, dystrophic changes occurring in the submucosal layer of the rectum and Parkes’ ligament have a negative effect.

Abundant mucus from the anus irritates the mucous membrane of the perianal area, leads to skin maceration, as a result, the development of an anal fissure, itching, burning, pain during defecation is not excluded.

In order to prevent these unpleasant phenomena, it is necessary to find out the cause of the pathological process and begin therapeutic measures.

Diagnosis of proctological diseases

Diagnosis of any disease, proctological is not an exception, it is, first of all, an examination by a doctor. Based on what the doctor reveals during the examination, a diagnosis will be made and treatment will be prescribed. An examination by a proctologist at Alan Clinic gives a complete picture of your problem, since it is based on two pillars – the doctor’s experience and modern diagnostic equipment.

Comprehensive diagnostics in the Department of Proctology “Alan Clinic” includes:

• Digital examination of the rectum
• Hardware diagnostics
  • Videoanoscopy
  • Videorectoromanoscopy
• Doctor’s consultation with diagnosis.