What causes yellow stool. How diet affects stool color. When is yellow stool a sign of a medical condition. What are the symptoms of celiac disease. How do liver disorders impact stool color. What are the treatments for gallbladder issues. Is Gilbert syndrome a serious condition.

Understanding Stool Color: What’s Normal and What’s Not

Stool color can vary significantly based on several factors, including diet, medication, and underlying health conditions. While brown is the most common color, variations are not uncommon. However, persistent changes in stool color, especially when accompanied by other symptoms, may indicate a health issue that requires medical attention.

Normal stool colors typically range from light to dark brown. This coloration is primarily due to the presence of bilirubin and bile in the digestive process. As bile travels through the gastrointestinal tract, enzymes cause changes that result in the characteristic brown color of stool.

Common Stool Color Variations

• Green: Often caused by leafy vegetables, food coloring, or rapid intestinal transit
• Orange: May result from eating carrots, winter squash, or taking certain medications
• Blue: Usually due to consumption of blue-colored foods or beverages
• Black: Can be caused by iron supplements, certain foods, or upper GI bleeding
• Red: May indicate lower GI bleeding or consumption of red-colored foods

While these color variations are generally harmless, persistent changes or those accompanied by other symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Yellow Stool: Causes and Implications

Yellow stool can be alarming, but it’s not always a cause for concern. In some cases, it may be a temporary result of dietary choices or stress. However, persistent yellow stools could indicate an underlying health condition that requires attention.

Dietary Factors Influencing Stool Color

Can diet cause yellow stool? Yes, certain foods and dietary habits can lead to yellow-colored stools. These include:

• Consuming foods rich in beta-carotene (e.g., carrots, sweet potatoes)
• Eating foods containing yellow food coloring
• Following a high-fat diet
• Consuming large amounts of gluten (in some individuals)

If dietary factors are the cause, adjusting one’s diet by reducing fatty, processed foods and identifying potential trigger foods can help resolve the issue.

Stress and Its Impact on Digestion

How does stress affect stool color? Stress and anxiety can accelerate the digestive process, potentially leading to yellow stools. This occurs because the body may not have sufficient time to absorb all nutrients from food, resulting in partially digested matter being excreted.

To address stress-related digestive issues, consider implementing stress-reduction techniques such as:

1. Practicing mindfulness or meditation
2. Engaging in regular physical exercise
3. Seeking support from a mental health professional
4. Prioritizing sleep and relaxation

Celiac Disease and Its Connection to Yellow Stool

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by the consumption of gluten. When individuals with celiac disease consume gluten, their immune system responds by attacking the small intestine, leading to various digestive symptoms, including yellow stools.

What are the primary symptoms of celiac disease? Common indicators include:

• Diarrhea or constipation
• Abdominal pain and bloating
• Fatigue and weakness
• Unexplained weight loss
• Anemia
• Skin rashes

While there is no cure for celiac disease, strict adherence to a gluten-free diet can effectively manage symptoms and prevent further intestinal damage.

Pancreatic Disorders and Their Effect on Stool Color

The pancreas plays a crucial role in digestion by producing enzymes that break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Disorders affecting the pancreas can lead to insufficient enzyme production, resulting in yellow, greasy, or frothy stools.

Which pancreatic disorders can cause yellow stool? Several conditions can impact pancreatic function and lead to changes in stool color:

• Chronic pancreatitis
• Cystic fibrosis
• Pancreatic cancer
• Blockage of the pancreatic duct

Treatment for pancreatic disorders varies depending on the specific condition but may include enzyme replacement therapy, dietary modifications, and in some cases, surgical intervention.

Liver Disorders and Their Impact on Bile Production

The liver produces bile, a substance crucial for the digestion of fats and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Liver disorders can disrupt bile production, leading to changes in stool color, including yellow stools.

How do liver disorders affect stool color? Conditions such as cirrhosis and hepatitis can reduce or eliminate bile salts in the body, resulting in:

• Pale or clay-colored stools
• Yellow stools
• Greasy or fatty stools

In addition to changes in stool color, liver disorders may cause other symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, and abdominal pain. Treatment depends on the specific liver condition and may include lifestyle changes, medication, or in severe cases, liver transplantation.

Gallbladder Issues and Their Relation to Yellow Stool

The gallbladder stores and concentrates bile produced by the liver. Problems with the gallbladder, such as gallstones or inflammation, can interfere with the normal flow of bile, potentially leading to yellow stools.

What are the common symptoms of gallbladder disorders? Individuals with gallbladder issues may experience:

• Abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right quadrant
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills
• Jaundice
• Changes in stool color, including yellow or pale stools

Treatment for gallbladder disorders varies based on the specific condition. Options may include dietary changes, medication to dissolve gallstones, or surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) in severe cases.

Gilbert Syndrome: A Genetic Cause of Yellow Stool

Gilbert syndrome is a common genetic liver disorder affecting 3-7% of the population. This condition is characterized by periods of elevated bilirubin levels in the blood, which can lead to mild jaundice and occasionally yellow stools.

Is Gilbert syndrome a serious condition? Generally, Gilbert syndrome is considered a benign condition that does not require treatment. Most people with Gilbert syndrome experience mild, intermittent symptoms and have a normal life expectancy. However, it’s important to receive a proper diagnosis to rule out other, more serious liver conditions.

Managing Gilbert Syndrome

While there is no cure for Gilbert syndrome, individuals can manage their symptoms by:

• Maintaining a healthy diet and staying well-hydrated
• Avoiding prolonged fasting or extreme dieting
• Managing stress levels
• Getting adequate sleep
• Avoiding alcohol and certain medications that may exacerbate symptoms

It’s important for individuals with Gilbert syndrome to inform their healthcare providers about their condition, as it can affect the metabolism of certain medications.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Yellow Stool

While occasional changes in stool color are often harmless, persistent yellow stools or those accompanied by other symptoms may warrant medical evaluation. When should you consult a doctor about yellow stool? Consider seeking medical attention if:

• Yellow stools persist for more than two weeks
• You experience unexplained weight loss
• You have persistent abdominal pain or discomfort
• You notice blood in your stool
• You develop jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• You experience persistent fatigue or weakness

A healthcare professional can perform necessary tests and examinations to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Diagnostic Procedures for Yellow Stool

To identify the cause of yellow stool, a doctor may recommend various diagnostic procedures, including:

1. Stool analysis to check for infections or malabsorption
2. Blood tests to assess liver function and bilirubin levels
3. Imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans to evaluate the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas
4. Endoscopic procedures to examine the digestive tract
5. Genetic testing if Gilbert syndrome is suspected

Based on the results of these tests, your healthcare provider can develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific condition.

Preventing Yellow Stool: Lifestyle and Dietary Considerations

While not all causes of yellow stool are preventable, certain lifestyle and dietary changes can help maintain healthy digestion and reduce the likelihood of developing yellow stools. What steps can you take to promote digestive health?

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
• Limit consumption of fatty, processed foods
• Identify and avoid foods that trigger digestive discomfort
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques and regular exercise
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
• Get regular check-ups and screenings as recommended by your healthcare provider

By adopting these healthy habits, you can support your digestive system and overall well-being, potentially reducing the occurrence of yellow stools and other digestive issues.

The Importance of Digestive Health

Maintaining optimal digestive health is crucial for overall well-being. A healthy digestive system not only ensures proper nutrient absorption but also plays a vital role in immune function and mental health. By paying attention to changes in your stool color and consistency, you can gain valuable insights into your digestive health and potentially identify early signs of underlying health issues.

Remember that while yellow stool can be concerning, it’s often a temporary issue related to diet or minor digestive disturbances. However, if you experience persistent changes in stool color or other worrying symptoms, don’t hesitate to consult with a healthcare professional. Early detection and treatment of digestive disorders can lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life.

Yellow stool: 8 causes

Stool is usually brown because of a balance of bilirubin and bile. An imbalance can cause stool to become yellow. This could be due to dietary factors, a liver problem, a gallbladder disorder, or another health condition.

Stools may change color for various reasons, including a person’s diet and various underlying medical conditions. Yellow is a normal variation of stool color in infants.

Changes in stool color are also normal. Watch for consistent changes over time and consult with a doctor if other symptoms are present.

This article will outline the causes of yellow stool in adults and infants, complications, and when to see a doctor.

A person’s diet and the level of bile present in the stool directly influence a person’s stool color. Bile is yellow-green, and as it travels through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, enzymes cause changes that turn it brown.

All shades of brown-colored stool are normal. If a person’s stool is red or black, or other changes remain longer than 2 weeks or come with other symptoms, they should consult a doctor.

Stools can be other colors, including:

• Green: Eating leafy green vegetables, green food coloring, iron supplements, or diarrhea moving food through the intestine too quickly may cause this color.
• Yellow, pale brown, or gray: Giardiasis can cause bright yellow diarrhea. Pale yellow or gray stool can result from problems in the liver or gallbladder.
• Orange: Eating carrots, winter squash, antibiotics, or antacids could cause this color.
• Blue: Usually the result of eating artificially blue foods or drinking blue beverages.
• Black, tarry: Eating black licorice or taking iron supplements, and bleeding in the upper GI tract, cirrhosis, or colorectal cancer can also cause black stool. Medication containing bismuth subsalicylate, better known as Pepto Bismol or Kaopectate, can also cause black, tarry stools.
• Bright red: Eating or drinking red, artificially colored food or drinks can cause this. Certain conditions can cause bleeding in the upper GI tract, such as cirrhosis or GI tumors. Hemorrhoids can cause bleeding in the lower GI tract and cause stool to be red.

Possible causes of yellow stool include:

Diet

Since the GI tract processes food for elimination, what a person eats can affect the color of their stool.

Carrots, sweet potatoes, turmeric, and foods that contain yellow food coloring may cause stool to become yellow.

A diet high in fat or gluten can also lead to yellow stool.

If a person regularly has yellow stools, they should try avoiding fatty, processed foods, gluten, or anything that causes an upset stomach.

Stress

Stress and anxiety can have many physical effects on the body, including speeding up the digestive process.

As a result, the body may not be able to absorb all of the nutrients in food, which may lead to diarrhea or yellow stool.

Taking steps to relieve stress by reducing commitments, practicing yoga, or seeing a therapist may help reduce physical symptoms.

Celiac disease

If people with celiac disease eat gluten, a protein in wheat, rye, and barley, their immune system responds by attacking the tissues of their small intestine.

This immune response causes tissue damage and compromises the intestines’ ability to absorb nutrients.

In addition to yellow stool, symptoms of celiac disease include:

• diarrhea
• constipation
• nausea
• bloating
• fatigue
• headaches
• depression

There is no cure for celiac disease, but a person can effectively manage the condition by avoiding gluten.

Disorders of the pancreas

Disorders of the pancreas can cause yellow or pale stool. Some of these disorders include:

• chronic pancreatitis
• cystic fibrosis
• pancreatic cancer
• blockage of the pancreatic duct

In people with these conditions, the pancreas cannot provide enough enzymes for the intestines to digest food. Undigested fat can lead to yellow stool that also appears greasy or frothy.

Liver disorders

Disorders of the liver, such as cirrhosis and hepatitis, can lower or eliminate bile salts in the body.

Bile salts are essential for the digestion of food and absorption of nutrients. The removal of these salts can result in yellow stools.

Gallbladder disorders

Gallbladder problems and gallstones can also reduce the level of bile salts in the body. This reduction can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:

• abdominal pain
• a fast heartbeat
• an abrupt drop in blood pressure
• jaundice, the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes
• pale stool

Treatment will depend on the specific gallbladder issue. The treatment for gallstones, for example, may include medication to dissolve the stones. In some cases, a person may need surgery.

Gilbert syndrome

Gilbert syndrome is a genetic liver disorder that affects 3–7% of Americans.

People with Gilbert syndrome have periods when their bilirubin levels are too high. Symptoms include mild jaundice and yellow stool. However, the symptoms can be so mild that most people do not notice them or know they have the condition.

Giardiasis

Giardiasis is a common intestinal infection caused by a microscopic parasite. A person can contract the Giardia parasite by ingesting Giardia cysts, usually through contaminated food or water.

Symptoms of giardiasis include:

• stomach cramps
• foul-smelling diarrhea
• yellow diarrhea
• nausea
• fever
• headaches
• weight loss

A doctor can diagnose giardiasis by testing a person’s stool samples. Treatment involves antibiotics, and the symptoms can last for up to a few weeks. In rare cases, the infection can be long term.

In infants, shades of yellow, brown, and green are all common stool colors. Babies fed formula may have thicker and darker stools, similar to mustard or soft play dough.

In the first week after birth, babies fed human milk will have three or four mustard-yellow, loose stools every 24 hours.

Speak with a doctor if an infant has red, black, or white poop, as this can indicate a problem.

An older adults’ diet or an underlying medical condition may cause yellow stools.

Liver or gallbladder disorders can reduce the production of bile salts, resulting in pale or yellow-colored stools.

If accompanied by diarrhea, older adults should avoid dehydration by drinking water or using oral rehydration solutions.

Yellow stool by itself does not lead to complications, but the underlying cause of it might.

Yellow stool may indicate a malabsorption disorder caused by a parasite, illness, or disease.

Malabsorption of fat can lead to an increased fat content in stools, which can be pale, large, foul-smelling, and loose. This is known as steatorrhea, and complications may include:

• malnutrition
• weight loss
• vitamin deficiencies
• iron deficiency anemia
• poor bone health

Yellow stool is usually due to dietary changes or food colors. However, if the color change continues for several days or other symptoms are present, it is best to contact a doctor.

A person should see a doctor if they experience any of the following symptoms with yellow stool:

• a fever
• vomiting
• abdominal pain
• pus-filled stool
• inability to urinate
• trouble breathing
• fainting
• a lack of awareness
• confusion or mental changes

The cause of yellow stool is usually related to a person’s diet, but it can also result from underlying health problems.

Some health problems can lead to malabsorption and malnutrition which can cause a loss of important vitamins and nutrients.

It is essential to look out for additional symptoms and see a doctor if the yellow color persists. The treatment will depend on the underlying cause.

Read the article in Spanish.

Giardiasis | Johns Hopkins Medicine

What is giardiasis?

Giardiasis is an infection caused by a parasite called Giardia. It causes diarrhea. It is passed on through oral contact with infected feces. You can get the parasite by eating food or drinking water that contains infected feces. When you travel, make sure not to drink water that may be unsafe.

Giardiasis a common intestinal parasite. It is most prevalent in countries with poor sanitary conditions, poor water quality control, and overcrowding. However, it is also a common cause of parasitic infection in the U.S. Hikers and campers who drink water from streams and other potentially contaminated sources are often infected.

What causes giardiasis?

The parasite that causes giardiasis lives in two stages:

• Trophozoites (the active form inside the body)
• Cysts (the resting stage that enables the parasite to survive outside the body)

Infection begins when the cysts are taken in through contaminated food or water. Stomach acid activates the cysts and the trophozoites are released. They attach to the lining of the small intestine and reproduce. Cysts form in the lower intestines and are then passed in the feces.

The parasite may be passed from person-to-person by contact with infected feces, or through consuming contaminated food or water.

What are symptoms of giardiasis?

Symptoms of giardiasis may include:

• Explosive, watery, foul-smelling stools
• Greasy stools that tend to float
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal (belly) pain
• Excessive gas
• Fatigue

The time between infection and the start of symptoms is usually from 1 to 2 weeks. Some infected people have very mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. The symptoms of giardiasis are a lot like those of other gastrointestinal diseases. See a healthcare provider for diagnosis.

How is giardiasis diagnosed?

Diagnosis of giardiasis is made by testing stool samples in a lab. Several stool samples may be needed at different times. If you think you may have this illness, contact your healthcare provider for advice.

How is giardiasis treated?

Giardiasis may be treated with prescription medicines. Specific treatment for giardiasis will be determined by your healthcare provider based on:

• How old you are
• Your overall health and medical history
• How sick you are
• How well you can handle specific medicines, procedures, or therapies
• How long the condition is expected to last
• Your opinion or preference

Several medicines can be used to treat the infection. Effective treatments include metronidazole, tinidazole, and nitazoxanide.

What are the complications of giardiasis?

If the infection is not treated and persists, you may not be able to absorb nutrients. It can also cause unintended weight loss.

Can giardiasis be prevented?

You can prevent giardiasis by practicing good personal hygiene. Proper hygiene when caring for those who may be infected with the parasite is also important. When visiting in an area where giardiasis may exist:

• Drink only boiled water or bottled water or drinks.
• Avoid ice and beverages made from tap water.
• Do not eat locally grown uncooked or unpeeled fruits and vegetables.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Call your healthcare provider if:

• Your symptoms get worse or you have new symptoms
• You lose your appetite and start to lose weight
• You become dehydrated from prolonged diarrhea

Key points about giardiasis

• Giardiasis is an infection caused by a parasite called Giardia. It causes diarrhea.
  Symptoms include explosive, watery, greasy, foul-smelling stools, bloating, nausea, pain, gas, fatigue, and loss of appetite.
• Several medicines are available that cure the infection.
• Prevention includes good personal hygiene, and avoiding drinking water, fruits, and vegetables that may be contaminated with the parasite.

Next steps

Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:

• Know the reason for your visit and what you want to happen.
• Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.
• Bring someone with you to help you ask questions and remember what your provider tells you.
• At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your provider gives you.
• Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed, and how it will help you. Also know what the side effects are.
• Ask if your condition can be treated in other ways.
• Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could mean.
• Know what to expect if you do not take the medicine or have the test or procedure.
• If you have a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.
• Know how you can contact your provider if you have questions.

Pancreatic steatorrhea. What is pancreatic steatorrhea?

IMPORTANT
The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.

Pancreatic steatorrhea is a syndrome characterized by an increase in undigested fat in the stool. The pathognomonic sign of the disease is copious, fetid stools with a greasy sheen and inclusions of undigested food. Typically, the appearance of pain and rumbling in the intestines, flatulence. Diagnosis of steatorrhea includes laboratory methods (coprogram, biochemical blood tests, probeless and probe tests), instrumental studies – ultrasound, CT, radioisotope scanning. For the treatment of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, a fat-restricted diet and enzyme replacement therapy are used.

ICD-10

K90.3 Pancreatic steatorrhea

• Causes
• Pathogenesis
• Classification
• Symptoms of pancreatic steatorrhea
• Complications
• Diagnostics
• Treatment of pancreatic steatorrhea
• Prognosis and prevention
• Prices for treatment

General

The syndrome of pancreatic steatorrhea (PS) is said to be when more than 7 g of neutral lipids are found in the feces for every 100 g of dietary fat. PS can be both an independent nosological form and one of the clinical manifestations of damage to the digestive organs. The true prevalence of steatorrhea is unknown. Pathology is recorded in 4-5% of gastroenterological patients. The syndrome affects people of any age, but more often it develops after 40-50 years. In men and women, pancreatic steatorrhea is detected with the same frequency.

Pancreatic steatorrhea

Causes

There are pathological variants of the syndrome and the physiological alimentary form of steatorrhea, provoked by overeating fatty foods. With nutritional causes of indigestion, the appearance of specific symptoms is due to the relative insufficiency of pancreatic enzymes, which do not have time to break down large amounts of fat. Pathological forms of PS are much more common, in the development of which 4 main reasons play a role:

• Reduction in the volume of the pancreatic parenchyma. The main etiological factor of steatorrhea in adults is pancreatitis of various origins. In chronic inflammation, the pancreatic tissue (PG), which secretes pancreatic enzymes, gradually undergoes sclerosis and fibrosis. The second most common cause is diabetes mellitus with the formation of antibodies to pancreatic cells.
• Violation of the outflow of pancreatic secretions. This condition is associated with a lack of hormonal substances that stimulate the release of digestive enzymes into the small intestine. It is typical for enteropathy, Crohn’s disease, short bowel syndrome. Mechanical obstructions – tumors or cysts – are less commonly observed.
• Dyssynchrony of the digestive process. In patients, the coordinated evacuation of the contents of the stomach and the release of pancreatic enzymes are disturbed. Most often, dyssynchrony occurs in the postoperative period: in 30-50% – with stem vagotomy with pyloroplasty, in 50-70% – with vagotomy with antrumectomy.
• Congenital anomalies. Insufficiency of exocrine secretory function is associated with hypoplasia or dysplasia of the pancreatic gland. A very rare cause of the disease is an isolated genetically determined deficiency in the synthesis of pancreatic lipase. Such forms of the disease occur in children and young people.

Pathogenesis

Normally, when the acidic chyme of the stomach enters the duodenum, active substances begin to be released that stimulate the production of pancreatic enzymes. Lipase is responsible for the breakdown of fats. First, fats are emulsified by bile, and then large molecules break down to glycerol and fatty acids. Low molecular weight substances are rapidly absorbed into the blood.

In pancreatic steatorrhea, fats cannot be broken down and absorbed in the intestines, so they are excreted in the stool. Undigested fats are hydrolyzed by colonic bacteria and increase the activity of the secretory function of colonocytes. Pronounced clinical signs develop if no more than 10% of pancreatic cells are functioning.

Classification

The systematization of the disease according to the severity is carried out taking into account the indicators of the coprogram. If less than a hundred small drops of neutral fats are detected, a mild form of steatorrhea is diagnosed, more than 100 small drops – a moderate form, more than 100 large (60-70 microns) drops – severe steatorrhea. In modern gastroenterology, an etiopathogenetic classification has been adopted, according to which there is:

• Primary steatorrhea. The syndrome occurs in the absence of lesions of the pancreas or other digestive organs, manifests at a younger age. One of the varieties is idiopathic steatorrhea, in which it is not possible to identify the cause.
• Secondary steatorrhea. All such cases of the disease are divided into 2 large groups: those caused by the pathology of the pancreatic gland and those caused by other gastroenterological problems. The first group accounts for more than 85% of cases.

Symptoms of pancreatic steatorrhea

The main signs of PS are abundant stools (polyfecal matter) and “fatty” feces. The stools become orange or yellowish in color, have a fetid odor. Characterized by a greasy sheen of feces and hard-to-wash marks on the walls of the toilet bowl. The frequency of defecation increases up to 3-4 times during the day, while each time a rather large portion of feces is excreted. Sometimes undigested food fragments can be seen in the excreted feces.

Exacerbation of pancreatic steatorrhea occurs after eating food with a large amount of animal fats. Patients complain of spastic pain without a clear localization, rumbling in the abdomen. There is severe bloating. The frequency of stool sometimes increases up to 5-6 times per day. After a bowel movement, rumbling and discomfort in the abdomen decrease, but do not completely disappear.

Other clinical symptoms join later. They are associated with micro- and macronutrient deficiencies. Due to a lack of iron, glossitis develops, the nail plates become thinner and deformed. Calcium deficiency is manifested by cramps in the calf muscles, pain in the bones and joints. Hypovitaminosis of fat-soluble vitamin A causes deterioration of twilight vision, excessive thickening and roughening of the skin.

With prolonged decompensated pancreatic steatorrhea, weight loss occurs up to cachexia. Due to the lack of lipids, the synthesis of sex hormones is disrupted. In women, hormonal failures lead to delayed menstruation or amenorrhea, in men – to a decrease in sexual desire, impotence. With a deficiency of vitamin E, weakness in the muscles worries.

Complications

Pancreatic steatorrhea is characterized by a change in the composition of the intestinal microflora. There is an enteropancreatic syndrome with excessive bacterial growth and inflammatory processes in the intestine. There is a high risk of pathogenic bacteria from entering the intestinal lumen into the abdominal cavity with the development of severe purulent processes, including diffuse peritonitis.

With a parallel violation of protein absorption, severe hypoproteinemic edema is formed, including central edema – swelling of the brain, lungs. Sometimes secondary hypopituitarism and adrenal insufficiency are detected. A close connection between steatorrhea and food allergies has been established, since some of the insufficiently split molecules can be absorbed into the blood and recognized as a foreign agent. Urticaria, eczema and excruciating skin itching are observed.

Diagnostics

The primary research method recommended for suspected pancreatic insufficiency is a coprogram. The analysis reveals small drops of fat, muscle fibers and other undigested food fragments. Such data make it possible to establish a preliminary diagnosis of steatorrhea, after which the gastroenterologist prescribes a detailed examination of the patient. Basic diagnostic methods:

• Probe tests. The most reliable for establishing exocrine pancreatic insufficiency is the secretin-pancreozymin test. The pathology is evidenced by a decrease in the level of lipase in the pancreatic juice after intravenous administration of stimulating hormone-like substances. Less often, a Lund food test is performed.
• Probeless tests. To identify chronic pancreatitis as the main cause of steatorrhea, the concentration of fecal elastase in the feces is measured. To determine the amount of lipids contained in the stool, the Van de Camera method is used – the diagnosis is confirmed when more than 5 g of fat is excreted daily.
• Ultrasound of the pancreas. The ultrasound method is used to visualize foci of inflammation or fibrosis in the pancreatic parenchyma. The liver, gallbladder, and ducts are examined with ultrasound to rule out biliary causes of steatorrhea. With insufficient information content of sonography, a CT scan of the abdominal organs is performed.
• Radioisotope methods. Used for topical diagnosis of disorders of digestion and absorption of fats. Labeled lipids are introduced into the human body, the amount of which is measured in feces, blood and urine after a certain period of time. The disease is characterized by an increase in the level of radioactive isotopes in the feces.

Treatment of pancreatic steatorrhea

Treatment of steatorrhea begins with the selection of a special diet. To improve digestion, it is required to limit the amount of fat to 40-60 g per day, and in case of severe secretory insufficiency – up to 30 g. Frequent fractional meals are recommended, which involves 5 meals at intervals of 2. 5-3 hours. Diet therapy is complemented by drug treatment, which includes a number of drugs:

• Enzymes. Replacement therapy is carried out with persistent dyspeptic complaints or with the loss of more than 15 g of fat per day with feces. To compensate for digestion, lipase is taken, if necessary, the treatment regimen is enhanced with other pancreatic enzymes.
• Vitamins. Used for severe hypovitaminosis with clinical manifestations. Most often, a complex of fat-soluble vitamins is prescribed: A, D, E. In the presence of anemia, cyanocobalamin and folic acid are effective.
• Ancillary drugs. Gastric juice preparations are indicated for concomitant hypoacid gastritis, which is accompanied by dyssynchrony of the digestive processes. To improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, intestinal antiseptics and probiotics are used.

Prognosis and prevention

The use of diet and enzyme therapy significantly improves the quality of life of patients with steatorrhea, allows you to quickly stop the symptoms. The prognosis is determined by the underlying disease that caused the lipase deficiency and is favorable for most patients. Preventive measures include early detection and treatment of gastroenterological diseases, dispensary observation of those suffering from pancreatic steatorrhea to prevent complications.

You can share your medical history, what helped you in the treatment of pancreatic steatorrhea.

Sources

1. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency: the diversity of the problem / Yu.O. Shupelkova // RMJ. — 2012.
2. Cholestasis and pancreatic insufficiency: where to start treatment?/ N.B. Gubergrits, G.M. Lukashevich// Clinical pharmacology. — 2014.
3. Fundamentals of Internal Medicine/V.G. Perederiy, S.M. Weaver. — 2009.
4. 0003 IMPORTANT
   The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.

   What does the appearance of fatty stools indicate? — Pavel Drozdov on vc.ru

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   stool that is difficult to pass out?Many people have this problem from time to time.However, persistent, fatty stools can indicate a bowel disorder such as IBS, pancreatitis, or gallstones.What can cause steatorrhea and what can you do about it?

   27 390
   views

   What does the appearance of fatty stool mean?

   Occasional fat in the stool is normal, especially after a very rich menu. For example, after visiting a chic French restaurant. However, persistent fatty stools are not normal and may indicate some intestinal disorder. Since the symptom usually indicates an inability to absorb fats and therefore fat-soluble vitamins, this condition must be addressed to prevent deficiency of these nutrients.

   Steatorrhea means that there is too much fat in your stool. Sometimes the condition can be caused by bile problems in the body. It helps a person break down fats in the stool efficiently and absorb fat-soluble vitamins such as A, E, D and K from them. Too much fat in the stool can also be a sign of malabsorption, which means that you are not absorbing nutrients well when you eat. passes from the stomach to the intestines.

   Persistent steatorrhea is a sign of absorption problems in the body. Over time, this inability to absorb it can cause all sorts of problems, as essential fatty acids are critical to virtually every organ, from eye health, keeping skin youthful, to hormone production. Therefore, see a doctor if the symptom is an ongoing problem.

   If you have steatorrhea, you should notice symptoms that accompany it, such as:

   • abdominal cramps,
   • gases,
   • indigestion,
   • diarrhea.

   How to treat steatorrhea?

   To treat steatorrhea, any doctor or gastroenterologist must first determine the cause of the problem. Because there are so many intestinal conditions that can contribute to an absorption problem, your doctor will run a series of stool tests.

   People with bile problems or those who do not have a gallbladder to store and concentrate bile will benefit from additional bile salts or pancreatic enzymes to break down fat better. They will improve the absorption of vitamins and essential acids.

   If you have a food allergy or food intolerance, simply avoiding the food that is dangerous to you will solve the problem. For more serious conditions, such as pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis, lifestyle changes are needed to cure the problem.