Is mucus in stool normal. What causes excessive mucus in stool. When should you be concerned about mucus in your bowel movements. How is mucus in stool related to various digestive disorders.

Understanding the Role of Mucus in Digestive Health

Mucus plays a crucial role in maintaining gut health. It acts as a protective barrier, defending the digestive system against harmful bacteria, digestive enzymes, acids, and other toxins. This natural lubricant also facilitates the smooth passage of stool through the intestines. While small amounts of mucus in stool are normal, larger quantities may indicate underlying health issues.

Research conducted in 2020 highlighted the importance of mucus and mucus barriers in preserving gut health. However, when problems arise with this protective layer, it can lead to intestinal inflammation and contribute to the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

What does normal mucus in stool look like?

In a typical bowel movement, mucus is usually not noticeable. When visible, it may appear tawny or clear in color. The mucous membrane of the large intestine produces this substance to aid in the passage of stool. According to a 2019 study, it’s normal for small amounts of mucus to be present in fecal matter.

Common Causes of Excessive Mucus in Stool

When stool contains visible mucus, it can be indicative of various health conditions. Here are some potential causes:

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

IBD, which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, is a common cause of excess mucus in stool. These conditions involve chronic inflammation of the digestive tract.

• Crohn’s Disease: This long-term condition causes inflammation throughout the digestive tract. People with Crohn’s often have a thicker layer of mucus in their digestive system, leading to excess mucus in stool.
• Ulcerative Colitis (UC): UC is characterized by inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the large intestine. During flare-ups, these ulcers can produce pus and mucus, which may be visible in stool.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a common digestive disorder that can cause mucus in stool, particularly in individuals with diarrhea-predominant IBS. This condition is often accompanied by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.

Proctitis

Proctitis refers to inflammation of the rectal lining. It can be acute or chronic and may result in the discharge of mucus or pus from the rectum. This condition is often associated with a frequent and urgent need to have bowel movements.

Intestinal Infections

Various infections in the gastrointestinal tract, caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, can lead to mucus in stool. Some parasitic infections may even cause bloody diarrhea with mucus.

Colorectal Cancer

While less common, colorectal cancer can cause mucus in stool, often streaked with blood. This type of cancer begins in the mucosa, the inner layer of the bowel wall, which contains mucus-producing cells called goblet cells.

Identifying Symptoms Associated with Mucus in Stool

When mucus in stool is accompanied by other symptoms, it may indicate a more serious condition. Here are some signs to watch for:

1. Increased amounts of mucus
2. Blood or pus in the stool
3. Stomach pain, cramping, or bloating
4. Sudden changes in stool frequency, consistency, or color
5. Persistent diarrhea or constipation
6. Rectal bleeding
7. Urgent need to have a bowel movement
8. Feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation

Diagnostic Approaches for Mucus in Stool

If you notice persistent or excessive mucus in your stool, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. They may use various diagnostic methods to determine the underlying cause:

Physical Examination and Medical History

Your doctor will likely begin with a thorough physical examination and review of your medical history. They may ask about your symptoms, diet, and any recent changes in bowel habits.

Stool Analysis

A stool sample can be analyzed to check for the presence of blood, mucus, bacteria, or parasites. This test can help identify infections or other digestive issues.

Imaging Tests

Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may recommend imaging tests such as:

• Colonoscopy: A procedure that allows the doctor to examine the entire colon using a flexible, lighted tube.
• CT scan: This can provide detailed images of your digestive tract and help identify inflammation or tumors.
• MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging can offer detailed views of the soft tissues in your digestive system.

Blood Tests

Blood tests can help detect signs of inflammation, infection, or other underlying conditions that may be causing mucus in your stool.

Treatment Options for Mucus in Stool

The treatment for mucus in stool depends on the underlying cause. Here are some potential approaches:

Dietary Changes

In some cases, modifying your diet can help reduce mucus production. This may involve:

• Increasing fiber intake to promote regular bowel movements
• Avoiding trigger foods that may exacerbate symptoms
• Staying hydrated to support digestive health

Medications

Depending on the cause, your doctor may prescribe medications such as:

• Anti-inflammatory drugs for IBD
• Antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Antidiarrheal medications for IBS-related diarrhea
• Probiotics to support gut health

Lifestyle Modifications

Certain lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and promote overall digestive health:

• Stress reduction techniques like meditation or yoga
• Regular exercise to support gut motility
• Adequate sleep to promote overall health

Preventing Excessive Mucus in Stool

While it’s not always possible to prevent mucus in stool, there are steps you can take to promote digestive health and reduce the risk of excessive mucus production:

Maintain a Balanced Diet

A diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support regular bowel movements and reduce the risk of digestive issues. Consider incorporating the following into your diet:

• Leafy greens like spinach and kale
• Berries and citrus fruits
• Whole grains such as quinoa and brown rice
• Legumes like lentils and chickpeas

Stay Hydrated

Adequate hydration is crucial for maintaining healthy digestion. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day, or more if you’re physically active or live in a hot climate.

Manage Stress

Chronic stress can negatively impact digestive health. Implement stress-reduction techniques such as:

• Deep breathing exercises
• Regular meditation or mindfulness practice
• Engaging in hobbies or activities you enjoy
• Seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional

Exercise Regularly

Physical activity can help promote regular bowel movements and support overall digestive health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. This can include:

• Brisk walking
• Swimming
• Cycling
• Yoga or Pilates

When to Seek Medical Attention for Mucus in Stool

While small amounts of mucus in stool are generally not cause for concern, there are instances where medical attention is necessary. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:

• Persistent or increasing amounts of mucus in your stool
• Blood or pus in your stool
• Severe abdominal pain or cramping
• Unexplained weight loss
• Chronic diarrhea or constipation
• Fever accompanied by digestive symptoms
• Any significant changes in your bowel habits that last more than a few days

Early detection and treatment of underlying conditions can help prevent complications and improve overall digestive health.

The Impact of Mucus in Stool on Quality of Life

Living with persistent mucus in stool can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. It may cause anxiety, discomfort, and social embarrassment. Understanding the potential causes and seeking appropriate medical care can help alleviate these concerns and improve overall well-being.

Emotional and Psychological Effects

Dealing with chronic digestive issues can take a toll on mental health. Some individuals may experience:

• Anxiety about having sudden bowel movements in public
• Depression related to ongoing health concerns
• Social isolation due to fear of symptoms
• Reduced self-esteem or body image issues

Coping Strategies

If you’re struggling with the emotional impact of mucus in stool or related digestive issues, consider the following coping strategies:

• Join a support group for individuals with similar conditions
• Practice self-care and stress-reduction techniques
• Communicate openly with friends and family about your condition
• Seek professional counseling if needed

Future Research and Treatments for Mucus-Related Digestive Issues

As our understanding of the digestive system and the role of mucus continues to evolve, researchers are exploring new avenues for treatment and prevention of mucus-related digestive issues.

Microbiome Research

Studies on the gut microbiome are shedding light on the complex relationship between gut bacteria and mucus production. This research may lead to new probiotic treatments or dietary recommendations to support a healthy mucus barrier.

Targeted Therapies

Scientists are working on developing targeted therapies that can address specific issues with mucus production or composition. These may include:

• Medications that modulate mucus thickness or viscosity
• Therapies that enhance the protective properties of the mucus barrier
• Treatments that address underlying inflammation without compromising mucus function

Personalized Medicine Approaches

As we gain a better understanding of individual variations in digestive health, personalized medicine approaches may become more common. These could involve:

• Genetic testing to identify predispositions to certain digestive conditions
• Tailored dietary recommendations based on an individual’s gut microbiome
• Customized treatment plans that take into account a person’s unique digestive profile

By staying informed about these developments and working closely with healthcare providers, individuals experiencing mucus in stool can hope for more effective and personalized treatments in the future.

Is it normal? What causes it?

Small amounts of mucus in the stool is normal. However larger amounts of mucus in their stool, may indicate irritable bowel disease (IBD) or other medical conditions.

Research from 2020 states that mucus and mucus barriers in the gut are crucial in maintaining a person’s gut health. The mucus can defend against bacteria, digestive enzymes and acids, and other toxins to maintain a stable environment in the gut.

It also acts as a natural lubricant and helps stool to pass.

However, problems with the mucus barrier can result in intestinal inflammation and contribute to the development of IBD. A main symptom of IBD is mucus in the stool.

This article discusses if it is normal for mucus to appear in the stool and possible causes. It also looks at when to contact a doctor and potential treatment options.

The mucous membrane of the large intestine helps stool to pass. According to research from 2019, it is normal for a small amount of mucus to be present in stool.

A typical bowel movement will not produce much mucus. It may be tawny or clear in color, and a person is unlikely to notice it.

When stool has visible mucus, it can be a sign of other health conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis (UC), or Crohn’s disease.

Other signs to look for:

• increased amounts of mucus
• blood or pus in the stool
• stomach pain, cramping, or bloating
• sudden changes in stool frequency, consistency, or color

A person should contact a doctor if they notice mucus in their stool.

Here are some possible causes of mucus in stool.

Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease is a long-term condition that causes inflammation in the digestive tract, which runs from the mouth to the anus. It is a form of IBD.

In people with Crohn’s, the layer of mucus in the digestive tract is thicker, so the body secretes excess mucus in the stool. However, during severe flare-ups, the body produces less mucus, which may mean less mucus in the stool.

Other symptoms of Crohn’s includes:

• persistent diarrhea
• rectal bleeding
• abdominal cramps
• abdominal pain
• constipation
• urgent need to have a bowel movement
• the feeling of an incomplete bowel evacuation

Ulcerative colitis (UC)

UC is another form of IBD. It occurs due to an overactive reaction of the immune system. It can flare-up, or be active, at times and be inactive at other times.

During a flare-up, the mucous membrane of the large intestine becomes inflamed and develops ulcers. These ulcers can bleed and produce pus and mucus. Mucus in the stool is more likely during a flare-up.

Other symptoms of UC include:

• urgent and loose bowel movements
• blood in the stool
• abdominal cramps and pain
• persistent diarrhea

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

People living with IBS may notice whitish mucus in their stool.

Other common symptoms of IBS include abdominal pain and changes in bowel movements, such as constipation and diarrhea.

People with diarrhea-predominant IBS are more likely to have mucus in their stool than people with constipation-predominant IBS.

Other symptoms of IBS include bloating and the sensation that a person has not finished the bowel movement.

Proctitis

Proctitis is inflammation of the lining of the rectum that can be short-term or long-lasting. The most common symptom is having a frequent and urgent need to have a bowel movement.

Another symptom of proctitis is having discharge of mucus or pus from the rectum, which a person should report to a doctor right away.

Other symptoms include:

• a feeling of fullness in the rectum
• rectal pain
• abdominal cramping
• pain during bowel movements
• rectal bleeding
• diarrhea
• constipation
• swollen lymph nodes in the groin

Intestinal infection

Infection in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract might also cause mucus in the stool. Infections can occur as a result of a bacteria, virus, or parasite.

Some parasitic infections may lead to bloody diarrhea with mucus.

Other symptoms include:

• diarrhea
• cramping
• vomiting
• nausea
• fever

Learn more about gastrointestinal infections here.

Colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer refers to cancer of the colon or rectum, which are part of the digestive tract.

Colon cancer begins in the mucosa, the inner layer of the bowel wall, which contains mucus-producing cells called goblet cells. People with colon cancer might see mucus streaked with blood in their stools.

Other symptoms include:

• change in bowel habits that lasts for more than a few days
• a feeling that a bowel movement is needed but the person is not relieved after having one
• dark brown or black stool as a result of blood
• bright red blood in the stool
• cramping in the abdomen
• weakness
• fatigue
• weight loss

Mucus in the stool may have other causes.

These include:

• celiac disease, otherwise known as gluten intolerance
• other food intolerance, including lactose, sucrose, and fructose intolerance
• lack of dietary fiber, which is needed to bulk out stool and help move waste smoothly out of the body
• intestinal parasites, such as tapeworms, hookworms, and pinworms
• cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder that causes an excess of mucus in the intestines and other organs

Usually, the first step towards understanding what is causing mucus in the stool is to test a stool sample.

A healthcare professional will give instructions on how to take a sample. It usually involves collecting a sample of stool in a clean container and, if a person is unable to hand it in immediately, storing it in the fridge to prevent bacteria from building up.

Once a healthcare professional has the sample, they can test it for bacteria and other substances from the digestive system.

Depending on the stool sample results, a person may need further tests to investigate the cause of excess mucus in the stool. Tests include:

• blood tests
• endoscopy, which involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light on the end, through the mouth or into the rectum
• colonoscopy, which is a type of endoscopy that examines the lower part of the digestive tract
• imaging tests, such as CT scan, ultrasound, and MRI scan

It is normal for a small amount of mucus to be present in stool. If a person regularly notices excess mucus or other changes in bowel movements accompanying it, they should talk with a doctor.

If mucus in the stool happens alongside other symptoms, it could be a sign of a condition that requires investigation and treatment.

A person should contact a doctor if they experience:

• persistent diarrhea
• abdominal pain
• blood in the stool
• vomiting
• unexplained fatigue
• unexplained weight loss

To help a doctor diagnose the issue, a person should keep a record of their bowel movements and any other symptoms. Keeping a food journal might also help identify food-related conditions.

Treatment will depend on the results of diagnostic tests.

If mucus in the stool is related to diet, a doctor might recommend drinking more water, increasing fiber intake, or taking probiotics.

Treatment might include prescription medication and lifestyle changes for long-term conditions such as Crohn’s, UC, and IBS.

If doctors diagnose cancer, they will refer a person to an oncologist, a specialist cancer doctor, who will devise a treatment plan specifically for them.

Having a small amount of mucus in the stool is normal.

Excess mucus can occur due to IBS, Crohn’s, UC, or proctitis. It may also be an indication of colon cancer.

If a person is concerned about the amount of mucus in their stool or experiences other symptoms, they should talk with a doctor.

Read this article in Spanish.

7 Reasons You Might Find Mucus In Your Stool—and How to Get Rid of It – DUDE Products

Let’s be honest, we all glance at our poop before flushing it down the toilet. It’s natural to be curious about your bowel movements. In fact, we encourage it since your poop says a lot about your health.

It’s common to find remnants of things you ate in your poop, like a stray sesame seed from sushi night or a corn kernel from your Chipotle burrito. But if you’re reading this, chances are you found something odd—and slightly concerning—in your poop: mucus.

Mucus is a clear, jelly-like substance that lines your gastrointestinal tract to help you digest food and pass stool. Finding mucus in your poop usually isn’t a big deal. But if it happens all the time or you have additional symptoms like pain, bleeding, weight loss, or a change in bowel habits, you should see a doctor.

Read on to learn seven common causes of mucus in stool, treatment options, and when it warrants medical advice.

Is It Normal to Find Mucus In Stool?

Yes—doctors note that it’s normal to find a small amount of mucus in your poop every once in a while. Your digestive tract needs mucus to fight bacteria, facilitate healthy bowel movements, and maintain gut health.

Most people don’t notice mucus in their stool because there are only trace amounts of it. Mucus is typically clear or a yellowish brown color, which also makes it hard to notice.

If you notice excess mucus or the mucus looks bloody, that could be the sign of a digestive health issue (more on that later). But generally, there’s no need to freak out about a bit of mucus in your stool.

7 Possible Causes of Mucus In Stool

Numerous factors can lead to extra mucus production in your GI tract, from minor infections to severe conditions like colon cancer. Let’s take a closer look at some common culprits.

1. Crohn’s Disease

Crohn’s disease is a chronic condition that causes inflammation in the digestive tract. It’s one type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Crohn’s disease causes the mucus layer in the digestive tract to thicken. As a result, more mucus becomes visible in poop.

Common symptoms of Crohn’s disease include frequent diarrhea, cramping, constipation, and the sudden urge to poop. 

2. Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is another type of IBD that stems from an overactive immune system. It causes ulcers and usually affects the large intestine.

During flare-ups, it’s common for these ulcers to produce mucus, according to the Journal of Crohn’s and Colitis. Other common symptoms include gas, bloating, nausea, and a sudden urge to poop.

3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

About half of people living with IBS experience mucus in their stool, according to research from 2008. There isn’t a solid theory as to why IBS causes this, but it likely has to do with chronic inflammation in the large intestine. 

Symptoms of IBS typically include abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and constipation.

4. Intestinal Infections

Bacteria in the intestines can stimulate mucus production to fight off gastrointestinal infections, AKA gastroenteritis. This may lead to mucus in stool.

Here are a few types of intestinal infections:

• Food poisoning
• Bacterial infections like salmonella
• Parasitic infections

5. Food Intolerances

If your gut doesn’t agree with the food you’re eating, your body may respond by producing more mucus—along with other unpleasant symptoms.

Two common food intolerances that may cause mucousy stools are:

• Celiac disease, also known as gluten intolerance
• Lactose intolerance, which refers to problems digesting dairy

6. Proctitis

Proctitis is a condition that causes inflammation of the rectum, a muscular tube that extends from your large intestine to your anus. Everybody’s rectum is lined by a mucous membrane, but when the tissue gets irritated, excess mucus can build up.

Proctitis is associated with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, but it can also happen from objects or substances being inserted into the rectum (we’ll leave it at that).

7. Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (also called colon cancer or rectal cancer) begins in the mucous membrane lining the bowels. Mucus in stool is one symptom of colorectal cancer, but it’s usually bloody mucus instead of the normal clear or yellowish stuff.

There’s no need to freak out about cancer if you find trace amounts of mucus in your poop. However, if you notice these additional symptoms you may want to schedule a colonoscopy.

• Dark colored stools
• Unexplained weight loss
• Thin, pencil-shaped stool
• Rectal bleeding

How to Get Rid of Mucus In Stool

The short answer: it depends. Treatment options for mucus in your stool vary based on your underlying condition(s). There’s a good chance the mucus may go away on its own. If not, try these tips for healthy poops:

• Stay hydrated
• Eat plenty of fiber
• Take a probiotic supplement to stabilize your gut microbiome
• Avoid foods that irritate your stomach

If you’re diagnosed with a condition like IBS, Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis, your doctor might suggest medications and lifestyle changes to keep your symptoms at bay.

When to See a Doctor About Mucus In Your Stool

A little bit of mucus in your poop probably isn’t a cause for concern, especially if it doesn’t happen often. However, don’t be shy about calling a doctor if things start to look or feel funky.

“Talk to your doctor if you notice an increased amount of mucus in stool—particularly if it begins happening regularly or if it’s accompanied by bleeding or a change in bowel habits,” says Dr. Elizabeth Rajan, M.D., a Mayo Clinic gastroenterologist.

Here are some other symptoms to watch out for:

• Frequent diarrhea
• Chronic abdominal pain
• Bloody stool
• Vomiting
• Unintended weight loss
• Chronic fatigue

If these symptoms accompany mucousy stool, your healthcare provider may request a stool sample or blood test to identify the problem. They may also suggest imaging tests like an x-ray, CT scan, or ultrasound.

Toilet Paper Is No Match for Mucus

Poop and mucus are two of the most reviled bodily substances. Nobody wants to talk about them, much less walk around with them smeared on your undercarriage.

Unfortunately, wiping with dry TP after a mucousy poop doesn’t clean you up—it just spreads the remnants around. That’s where DUDE Wipes come in to save the day (and your butt).

Whether you have mucus in your stool or your poop is picture perfect, we’re prepared to clean up the aftermath.

❰Mucus in Feces❱ in Adults – Causes and Treatments

Mucus in the stool may occur due to physiological causes. After all, the production of a small amount of mucus into the intestinal lumen occurs constantly and its traces, indeed, can sometimes be seen in the feces.

But most often visible impurities of mucus in the feces of an adult can indicate such pathological conditions as:

• colitis
• colon polyp
• colon cancer
• diverticular disease of the colon
• dysbacteriosis
• irritable bowel syndrome
• as well as disorders of absorption processes in the lumen of the colon

Mucus in the feces is a possible symptom of a fairly wide list of diseases. A proctologist will help to identify the cause of the presence of mucus in the feces.

You can make an appointment with a proctologist on our website.

Appointment

Why mucus appears in the stool

When the amount of mucus increases, it is often associated with various pathologies. Certain disorders can develop into chronic ones, which is considered a serious threat. Most often, mucus in the stool is a symptom of an inflammatory process. For example, if the substance is slippery and diarrhea, the likelihood of an intestinal infection is high. The appearance of blood in the stool and pain in the abdomen indicate the risk of Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and even cancer.

Clear mucus stool possible as a side effect of certain drugs and dietary products. For example, NSAIDs, flatulence medications, smoking, and even drinking coffee increase mucus. If you exclude something from this list, you can normalize the concentration of the substance.

What diseases cause mucus in the stool

Jelly-like mucus in the stool can indicate:

• irritable bowel syndrome. The functioning of the intestine is impaired in the absence of pathological formations. Symptoms of a bowel problem are alternating constipation and diarrhea. The presence of mucus in the feces is typical for this disease
• Crohn’s disease. The inflammatory process is chronic, often difficult, and acts as a catalyst for the appearance of malignant tumors. Lesion from oral cavity to rectum. In most cases there is clear mucus in the stool
• ulcerative colitis. It causes the appearance of ulcers on the mucous membrane. Due to the fact that they bleed, rot, red mucus may appear in the stool. Symptoms also include abdominal cramps, bloating
• proctitis. Inflammation in the rectum. A characteristic sign is white mucus in the stool in an adult
• allergic colitis. Peculiar to children and manifests itself as a reaction to cow’s milk
• oncology of the rectum or colon. The key sign is the presence of blood in the stool. But, feces with white mucus are also possible
• food poisoning. In rare cases, it is accompanied by blood and copious amounts of mucus. Often things go back to normal after a few days, but if it lasts longer, see a doctor
• membranous colitis. In this case, yellow mucus appears in the stool in an adult

This is only a small part of the diseases accompanied by mucus in the stool. Sometimes these symptoms are associated with temporary indigestion. Jelly-like mucus in the stool in an adult is considered normal, but if we are talking about the minimum amount and transparency. It is best to undergo diagnostics at Mediland Medical Center in order to detect the disease in a timely manner.

When to see a doctor

If an adult has excessively large amounts of stool with mucus, it is easier to say mucus instead of regular stool, this is a signal of a serious illness. You need to see a doctor. Other symptoms are also possible:

• there is blood in the stool
• yellow mucus in feces – purulent or bacterial process, also one of the signs of hemorrhoids and polyps
• frequent diarrhea
• spasms, abdominal pains

Mucus with feces with any signs should be regarded as the need to visit a doctor for a complete examination. Sometimes mucus appears between bowel movements or without feces at all. This is a signal of the beginning of the inflammatory process in the intestines and low tone in the circular muscle in the rectum.

White stool is one sign of serious diseases: hepatitis, liver tumors, problems with the pancreas. Stercobilin affects the color of feces, if it falls or decreases, the development of pathologies dangerous to the human body may begin.

Diagnostic methods for the appearance of feces with mucus

Doctors of Mediland Medical Center for maximum accuracy in diagnosing thick mucus in the feces use different approaches:

• detailed blood test
• coprogram
• stool examination for infections, occult blood
• colonoscopy – examination of the mucous membrane of the rectum and colon with a colonoscope
• sigmoidoscopy – diagnostics of the rectum and sigmoid colon
• examination of the stomach, esophagus
• video capsule endoscopy is prescribed for the study of the digestive tract. A capsule with mini-cameras is used, the patient swallows it, doctors get the opportunity to assess the patient’s condition
• referral for CT and MRI

If mucus is found in the stool, for treatment, you need to make an appointment with a doctor. With early diagnosis, the likelihood of a quick recovery and a decrease in the risk of complications of the disease increases. Mediland MC offers basic instrumental and laboratory diagnostic approaches. In addition, the patient consults with advanced doctors.

What to do

The appearance of an admixture of mucus in the stool in an adult requires a total examination of the colon by colonoscopy. It is a visual examination of all parts of the large intestine that will allow not to miss the initial stages of dangerous diseases.

At Mediland Medical Center, colonoscopy is performed under intravenous anesthesia and does not cause any discomfort to the patient. Research data can be recorded on a computer hard drive and, if necessary, handed out to the patient.

Before signing up for such an examination (colonoscopy), it would be rational to consult a proctologist. The specialist will select the correct examination algorithm, depending on the specific situation, if necessary, appoint consultations of doctors of related specialties and draw up a treatment program based on the data received.

What not to do

Do not under any circumstances use information obtained from the Internet to form your own idea about the cause of health complaints and methods for their elimination.

Do not take advice from friends, neighbors and acquaintances on how to get rid of the problem, based on their positive experience. Remember that mucus in the feces can be a symptom of various diseases, and what gave an excellent result in the case of your “adviser” can have a completely opposite effect on your body.

It should be remembered that self-treatment (including, at first glance, successful), the patient can level the symptoms of the disease, but not cure the disease. Very often, after such self-treatment, patients turn to doctors with advanced forms of the disease.

Do not be afraid of a visit to the doctor and diagnostic procedures. Qualified proctologists of Mediland Medical Center perform all procedures correctly, without causing any physical or moral suffering to the patient.

It is important to remember – the loss of time in matters of diagnosis and treatment often turns simple cases of diseases into big health problems! Proctologist, Surgeon, Phlebologist PhD, Associate Professor, is a member of ESCP, IPS

Important to know

What to do

The appearance of an admixture of mucus in the feces in an adult requires a total examination of the colon by colonoscopy. It is a visual examination of all parts of the large intestine that will allow not to miss the initial stages of dangerous diseases.

At Mediland Medical Center, colonoscopy is performed under intravenous anesthesia and does not cause any discomfort to the patient. Research data can be recorded on a computer hard drive and, if necessary, handed out to the patient.

Before signing up for such an examination (colonoscopy), it would be rational to consult a proctologist. The specialist will select the correct examination algorithm, depending on the specific situation, if necessary, appoint consultations of doctors of related specialties and draw up a treatment program based on the data received.

What not to do

Under no circumstances should you use information obtained from the Internet to form your own idea of ​​the cause of complaints and methods for their elimination.

Do not take advice from friends, neighbors and acquaintances on how to get rid of the problem, based on their positive experience. Remember that mucus in the feces can be a symptom of various diseases, and what gave an excellent result in the case of your “adviser” can have a completely opposite effect on your body.

It should be remembered that self-treatment (including, at first glance, successful), the patient can level the symptoms of the disease, but not cure the disease. Very often, after such self-treatment, patients turn to doctors with advanced forms of the disease.

Do not be afraid of a visit to the doctor and diagnostic procedures. Qualified proctologists of Mediland Medical Center perform all procedures correctly, without causing any physical or moral suffering to the patient.

It is important to remember – the loss of time in matters of diagnosis and treatment often turns simple cases of diseases into big health problems!

Appointment

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What is mucus in the feces and why does it appear.

The appearance of impurities in the feces is a symptom that may indicate various pathologies. We understand what the discharge from the anus is, what can cause them and what accompanying symptoms you need to pay attention to.

What is stool with mucus

Mucus is a secret of epithelial cells, which is necessary to protect the mucous membrane of the organ from damage and external influences. It usually includes mucopolysaccharides, various natural antiseptics and immunoglobulins. Mucus is usually produced in the lungs, organs of hearing and vision, the genitourinary system, and the gastrointestinal tract.

Normally, mucus looks like transparent, homogeneous discharge without impurities, color and odor. Normally, a small amount of mucus may be present in the stool. This does not mean any pathology. Such discharge becomes a problem in cases where mucus comes out of the anus and other impurities appear outside the acts of defecation or in the feces.

What can be the discharge from the anus

In addition to normal clear mucus, other secretions may also come out of the anus along with feces or outside acts of defecation. What characteristics should you pay attention to?

Since feces have their own aroma, it will be problematic to distinguish the smell of mucus in the stool from it. However, if the odor of the feces has changed, become more offensive or sour, it can also be a diagnostic criterion. In addition, it is worth paying attention to the consistency of the stool, against which the discharge occurs.

Important! Mucus should be separated from pus. The latter is a cloudy infiltrate with a bad odor, which is formed as a result of specific tissue inflammation. Pus in the stool is a dangerous sign that indicates serious bowel disease that can be fatal.

Causes of mucus in the stool in a child

Mucus in the intestines and, as a result, in the feces of a child can be the result of various pathological processes. In children under one year old, its appearance is most often associated with the following factors:

• malnutrition – imbalance of foremilk during breastfeeding, improperly selected artificial mixture, forced introduction of complementary foods;
• lactase deficiency – congenital, which is associated with insufficient production of lactose, and acquired, which occurs against the background of malnutrition;
• inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract – ulcerative colitis, infectious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

In addition, in childhood, mucus in the feces can be a sign of cystic fibrosis (a congenital disease in which the epithelium produces an excessive amount of mucus), dysbacteriosis and irritable bowel syndrome.

Book an online consultation if you notice mucus in your baby’s stool in your baby’s diaper or toilet paper. Our doctors will help you interpret the symptoms by phone or video chat, tell you what tests you need to take and what can be done to improve your baby’s stool.

Causes of stool with mucus in an adult

In adulthood, excess mucus in the intestines also indicates various pathological processes. The pus in the feces also speaks of the same. Most often, these signs indicate the development of the following diseases:

• chronic constipation;
• intestinal obstruction;
• infectious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• parasitic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• imbalance of the intestinal microbiota;
• enzymatic deficiency;
• inflammation of various areas of the intestine;
• leaky gut syndrome;
• pathology of the rectum – hemorrhoids, anal fissure, fistula.

Mucus can also appear in those cases when, instead of the usual feces, liquid comes out of the anus. Mucus diarrhea occurs in response to inflammation or infection of the intestines. However, it can be difficult to notice mucus from the intestines in this case. With hemorrhoids and other pathologies of the rectum, mucus usually looks like blood streaks.

Read also
What is Leaky Gut Syndrome?

Associated symptoms of mucus during bowel movements

In addition to the secretions themselves and their nature, it is worth paying attention to the accompanying symptoms that can occur if there is mucus in the feces. These include:

• pain in the abdomen of a different nature and localization;
• increased gas formation and accumulation of gases in the intestines;
• frequent urge to go to the toilet or, conversely, difficulty with the separation of feces;
• increase in body temperature;
• loss of appetite;
• the appearance of belching with a different smell;
• nausea and vomiting.

Children may also experience increased moodiness and frequent anxiety. He may refuse breasts and bottles, sleep less, and have obvious difficulty going to the bathroom.

Important! Women often experience functional constipation during pregnancy. It is associated with the pressure of the uterus on the rectum and hormonal changes. Against the background of such constipation, more mucus is formed in the feces of a pregnant woman.

How to get rid of mucus in the intestines

Treatment begins with the fact that it turns out what kind of discharge – mucus or pus – is found in the intestines. To do this, it is necessary to pass a coprogram, according to the results of which the doctor will select and prescribe additional examinations. He can prescribe an ultrasound, x-ray, endoscopy and other studies and tests, the results of which make a diagnosis.

The treatment itself is aimed at eliminating the cause that led to the appearance of mucus in the feces. Tactics and duration depend on the underlying disease and its manifestations. In addition, a specialized diet is selected to reduce the load on the intestines. Babies are advised to change the mixture or adjust the diet while breastfeeding.

Book an online consultation if you can’t clear mucus from your or your baby’s stool. Our doctors will remotely help you understand what caused it to appear, and tell you what can be done to remove the mucus.

FAQ

What does diarrhea with mucus mean?

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Loose stools, in which mucus is found, mainly indicates inflammatory diseases of the large intestine. This is due to the fact that in this section there is a large number of cells that produce a mucous secret. When replenished, their activity is activated, since mucus helps fight the inflammatory process and protect other parts of the gastrointestinal tract from it.

What causes pus in the intestines?

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Pus is the result of inflammatory processes, in which an infiltrate with an unpleasant yellow or green odor begins to form in the intestines. It can form with an abscess, peritonitis, and some other diseases.

How is pus in stool different from mucus?

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Mucus is a transparent secret secreted by special epithelial cells to protect the intestines from external influences. It consists of mucopolysaccharides, immunoglobulins and antiseptics. Pus is formed as a result of a purulent-inflammatory disease and consists of dead cells, lymphocytes and macrophages.

What to do if there is mucus in the stool?

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First you need to understand what caused it to appear. To do this, you need to make an appointment with a doctor and undergo an examination. After the main diagnosis is made, treatment is carried out, against which the condition of the stool returns to normal.

Expert opinion

Mucus in the stool – the appearance in the feces of a special type of impurities in the form of films, ribbons, flakes or lumps. An increase in its amount occurs against the background of various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.