Why Is My Stool Orange and Watery? Unusual Symptoms

The reason why the color of the stool can appear darker or more orange-yellow than urine is due to the presence of bile pigments, particularly bilirubin, which is produced during the breakdown of red blood cells. When bile is secreted into the intestines, it can be modified by gut bacteria, leading to the formation of stercobilin, which gives stool its characteristic brown color. Additionally, dietary factors, hydration levels, and the presence of certain medications can

Hello doctor, I would like to ask you about something that has happened for the second time.
I'm not sure if I should undergo an endoscopy.
I feel like something is flowing out, and during times when I'm not straining, I initially thought it was my menstrual period, but there was no blood color at all in my private area.
When I was sitting on the toilet and strained to pass gas, I was certain that something was flowing out from my rectum.
When I wiped, there was no normal stool color at all; it looked exactly like the color of orange peel.
In the toilet, there were also small floating bits that appeared yellow-orange, and upon closer inspection, it even seemed oily!

Li Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/29

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

If you consume a higher amount of fatty foods, fish with high omega-3 content, or take weight loss medications, the fat content in your stool may increase.
These fats can extract bilirubin from the stool, resulting in an orange-yellow color.
It is recommended that you temporarily follow a light diet, and if you are taking weight loss medications, you should also pause them.
If symptoms do not improve, a colonoscopy may be arranged.

Reply Date: 2016/03/29

More Info

When you notice orange and watery stool, it can be concerning, especially if it happens repeatedly. The color and consistency of stool can be influenced by various factors, including diet, hydration levels, and underlying health conditions. In your case, the orange color and watery consistency could be attributed to several potential causes.

Firstly, dietary choices play a significant role in stool color. Foods that are high in carotenoids, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and certain fruits like oranges and pumpkins, can lead to orange-colored stool. If you have consumed a large quantity of these foods recently, it is possible that they are the reason for the change in your stool color. Additionally, foods like beets and certain artificial colorings can also affect stool color.
Moreover, if you have been consuming foods that are high in fat, this could lead to a more oily appearance in your stool, which might explain the "oily" sensation you described. Fat malabsorption can occur due to various gastrointestinal issues, including conditions like celiac disease, pancreatitis, or issues with bile production. If your stool is floating and has a greasy appearance, it may indicate that your body is not properly absorbing fats.

Another consideration is the possibility of gastrointestinal disturbances. If you are experiencing symptoms such as bloating, gas, or changes in bowel habits, it could suggest an underlying issue with your digestive system. Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), infections, or inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) can lead to changes in stool consistency and color.
Given your description of feeling something flowing out without straining, and the absence of blood, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. While orange stool is often benign and related to diet, the presence of watery stool and the sensation of something unusual could warrant further investigation. If these symptoms persist or worsen, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.
In some cases, a stool test may be recommended to check for the presence of fat, blood, or other abnormalities. If there are concerns about potential gastrointestinal issues, a colonoscopy or other imaging studies may be suggested to rule out any serious conditions.

In summary, while orange and watery stool can often be attributed to dietary factors, it is crucial to pay attention to accompanying symptoms and changes in your bowel habits. If you have concerns about your health or if the symptoms persist, seeking medical advice is the best course of action. Regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider can help ensure any potential issues are addressed promptly.

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