Causes of Mucus in Stool

Changes in stool color and consistency may often point towards an underlying health problem, especially related to the digestive system. In normal cases, stools must have a toothpaste-like consistency, with a brownish color. So, if it turns green or black or develop a too hard/watery consistency, then, you must seek medical attention. Another abnormal condition is the appearance of mucus in stool. A small amount of mucus in stool is said to be normal. But, if you notice increased amounts of mucus in stool, then, you must consult your doctor. Though, expulsion of mucus through stools is not a serious or life-threatening condition, it could be an indication of some underlying disease. Continue reading this article, for a brief overview about the common causes of mucus in stool.

What Causes Mucus in Stool?

As said earlier, a small amount of mucus in stool is normal. This is because of the production of mucus by the cells of the mucous membrane that line the intestines. This mucus serves the purpose of lubrication as well as protection of the inner layers of the digestive tract. So, the mucus aids movement of waste materials inside the colon and in expelling them as stools. But, increased levels of mucus in the stool, can be a cause of concern. In most cases, inflammation of the intestine is found to be the basic cause for this condition. Such inflammation can be caused by various medical conditions that may be minor or major. So, right diagnosis and treatment is necessary, especially for those with persistent and/or additional symptoms.

• Those with constipation or diarrhea may have mucus in stool. This symptom is also seen in those with food hypersensitivities.
• One of the common causes of mucus in stool is bacterial infections. Bacteria, like Shigella, Salmonella, Campylobacter, etc., can affect the digestive system and cause symptoms like mucus in stool.
• Diverticulitis, a condition that affects the digestive system, is characterized by pouches on the inner walls of the intestines, especially the large intestine. These pouches may get infected and inflamed, causing symptoms like mucus in stool.
• A type of inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis is characterized by ulcers on the walls of the colon as well as the rectum. Ulcerative colitis symptoms include weight loss, anemia, tiredness, abdominal pain and diarrhea, sores on the skin and pain in the joints. Blood or mucus in stool is one of the possible symptoms of this condition.
• Proctitis is one among the various causes of mucus in stool. The condition is characterized by inflammation of the rectal lining, due to STDs, other infections and radiation therapy. Apart from abdominal as well as rectal pain, this condition may also cause symptoms like, rectal bleeding, diarrhea, etc.
• Another condition that can cause mucus in stool, is celiac disease. In this case, the immune system responds abnormally to ingestion of foods with gluten. This abnormal reaction damages the inner lining of the small intestine, thereby leading to symptoms like bloating, diarrhea or constipation, pale stools, anemia and weight loss.
• Those affected with irritable bowel syndrome may also have mucus in stool, along with other symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, loose and watery stools, etc. The severity of symptoms may vary from one person to another.

The above-mentioned are some of the common causes of mucus in stool. There are various other conditions that may cause this symptom. They include anal fissures and fistulas, viral gastroenteritis, cancer of the digestive tract, lactose intolerance, twisting of the colon (colonic volvulus), etc.

The condition can be cured by treating the underlying cause. It is best to consult your doctor, as soon as you notice the symptom. If there is any underlying cause, get it treated. If there is no serious underlying cause, then, you may try some home remedies. Mucus in stool can be remedied by drinking more water, consuming herbal demulcent and all other food products that pacify the inner lining of the intestines. Marsh mallow (herb) is an example of a demulcent. And so is the slippery elm. Take a cup of hot water and mix a teaspoon of ground flaxseed in it. Let it sit for at least 12 hours, before you consume. This is one of the popular demulcent teas. All these can be taken generously to get rid of the mucus in stool naturally. But, home remedies are not advisable for those with persistent and/or additional symptoms and in such cases, immediate medical attention must be sought.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.