From the Guidelines
Mucus in stool is most commonly caused by inflammatory bowel diseases, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), infections, food allergies or intolerances, and colorectal cancer, as evidenced by the European consensus on the histopathology of inflammatory bowel disease 1. The presence of mucus in stool can be a normal occurrence, but persistent or large amounts warrant medical attention. Common causes of mucus in stool include:
- Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Infections such as bacterial or parasitic gastroenteritis
- Food allergies or intolerances
- Colorectal cancer If you notice mucus in your stool, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in stool, or weight loss, consult a healthcare provider. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include antibiotics for infections, anti-inflammatory medications for IBD (such as mesalamine, corticosteroids, or biologics), dietary changes for food intolerances, or antispasmodics for IBS, as suggested by the american gastroenterological association medical position statement: irritable bowel syndrome 1. Mucus production occurs naturally in the intestines to protect and lubricate the digestive tract, but excessive production often indicates inflammation or irritation of the intestinal lining. Keeping a food diary and noting symptom patterns can help identify potential triggers and assist your healthcare provider in determining the appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan. It is essential to note that the diagnosis of a functional bowel disorder always presumes the absence of a structural or biochemical explanation for the symptoms, as stated in the american gastroenterological association medical position statement: irritable bowel syndrome 1. Therefore, a thorough evaluation, including a complete physical examination, sigmoidoscopy, and additional testing when indicated, is necessary to determine the underlying cause of mucus in stool. The european consensus on the histopathology of inflammatory bowel disease 1 provides a comprehensive overview of the microscopic features used for the diagnosis of IBD, which can aid in the diagnosis and treatment of mucus in stool. In summary, the most appropriate course of action for mucus in stool is to consult a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan, as excessive mucus production can be a sign of an underlying condition that requires medical attention 1.
From the Research
Causes of Mucous in Stool
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a common cause of mucous in stool, as it leads to inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
- Specific conditions such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease can cause mucous in stool due to the inflammation and damage they cause to the colon and rectum 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
- The exact mechanism of mucous production in IBD is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to the inflammation and immune response in the gut 3, 6
- Certain medications, such as sulfasalazine and mesalamine, can help reduce inflammation and mucous production in IBD patients 2, 3, 5, 6
Related Factors
- Bacterial imbalance and infection can contribute to mucous production in the gut 2, 4
- Dietary factors, such as a high-fiber diet, can help reduce mucous production and inflammation in IBD patients 4
- Stress and emotional factors can exacerbate IBD symptoms, including mucous production 4