Strawberry Jam-Like Stool: Causes and Concerns

The stool has a strawberry jam-like substance?

Hello Doctor: About a month and a half ago, I experienced slight abdominal bloating and pain.
At that time, I was drinking insufficient water, and my stools were pellet-like.
During wiping, I noticed a strawberry jam-like substance for two to three bowel movements, after which the symptoms disappeared.
Recently, I did not see the strawberry jam-like substance in my stools or during wiping, but there was a ring of brick-red discoloration in the water around the stool.
The next day, the first part of the stool was normal, but the latter part was soft, and the final portion had the strawberry jam-like substance again, with some visible on the toilet paper during wiping.
I also experienced abdominal bloating and discomfort (similar to menstrual cramps).
What could be the cause of this?

Niming, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/06/04

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

The so-called "strawberry jam" substance is mostly the result of a mixture of blood and mucus.
In such cases, doctors generally recommend undergoing a colonoscopy.
The results usually show no abnormalities; if that is the case, it may be due to prolonged bowel movements or excessive straining.
However, large polyps or tumors can also cause this phenomenon, so it is best to undergo a colonoscopy as soon as possible.

Reply Date: 2018/06/04

More Info

The symptoms you are describing, particularly the presence of a "strawberry jam-like" substance in your stool, can be concerning and warrant a thorough evaluation. The appearance of your stool, along with the accompanying abdominal discomfort and changes in bowel habits, suggests that there may be an underlying gastrointestinal issue that needs to be addressed.

Firstly, the "strawberry jam-like" appearance of stool often indicates the presence of mucus or blood mixed with the stool. This can occur due to several reasons, including:
1. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and the presence of mucus or blood in the stool. The "strawberry jam" appearance could be due to the presence of blood mixed with mucus.

2. Infections: Gastrointestinal infections, whether viral, bacterial, or parasitic, can lead to changes in stool consistency and appearance. Some infections can cause inflammation and result in mucus production, which may give the stool a reddish hue.

3. Hemorrhoids or Anal Fissures: If there is any bleeding from the rectal area, it could mix with stool and appear as a reddish substance. Hemorrhoids or fissures can cause pain and discomfort, especially during bowel movements.

4. Dietary Factors: Certain foods can affect stool appearance. For example, consuming beets or foods with red dye can lead to red-colored stools. However, this is less likely to be the case if you are consistently seeing this appearance.

5. Diverticular Disease: Diverticulosis and diverticulitis can cause changes in bowel habits and may lead to the presence of blood or mucus in the stool.

Given that you have experienced abdominal bloating and discomfort, along with changes in your bowel movements, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider for a comprehensive evaluation. They may recommend diagnostic tests such as stool analysis, blood tests, and possibly imaging studies or a colonoscopy to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.

In the meantime, it is advisable to maintain a well-hydrated state and a balanced diet rich in fiber to help regulate bowel movements. Avoiding irritants such as spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine may also help alleviate some of your symptoms. Keeping a record of your symptoms, including any dietary changes and the frequency and appearance of your stools, can provide valuable information for your healthcare provider.

In conclusion, while the symptoms you are experiencing may be due to a benign condition, they could also indicate a more serious underlying issue. Prompt medical evaluation is crucial to ensure appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Please do not hesitate to seek medical attention, especially if your symptoms persist or worsen.

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