Green Stool: Is It Related to Jaundice or Gastrointestinal Issues?

Green stool, thin and thick stool?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask if green stool is related to jaundice.
I have been passing green stool for the past few days and I'm concerned it might be related to gastrointestinal diseases.
Also, the stool I passed has a diameter of about 1 cm.
Would you consider this to be thin stool? How thin does stool need to be to indicate a potential tumor in the colon?

lone nan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/30

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

You may resume a normal diet and increase your intake of fruits and vegetables.
Continue to monitor the color and appearance of your stool.
If necessary, a stool occult blood test can be performed.

Reply Date: 2020/08/30

More Info

Green stool can be a source of concern for many individuals, and it's understandable to want to connect it with potential health issues such as jaundice or gastrointestinal disorders. Let's break down the possible causes of green stool and its implications for your health.

Firstly, the color of stool is primarily influenced by what you eat and how your body processes that food. Green stool can occur for several reasons, including the consumption of certain foods, particularly those high in chlorophyll, such as leafy greens (spinach, kale) or foods with green food coloring. Additionally, if food moves too quickly through the intestines, it may not have enough time to break down completely, resulting in a green color. This rapid transit can be caused by various factors, including gastrointestinal infections, stress, or certain medications.

Regarding your concern about jaundice, it is important to note that jaundice is characterized by a yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes, which occurs due to an accumulation of bilirubin in the blood. While green stool itself is not directly related to jaundice, it can indicate underlying gastrointestinal issues that may need to be addressed. If you are experiencing other symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or pale stools, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly, as these could be signs of liver dysfunction or bile duct obstruction.

As for the size of your stool, a diameter of approximately 1 cm is generally considered normal. However, if you notice a significant change in your stool size, consistency, or frequency, it could warrant further investigation. Narrow stools can sometimes be associated with conditions such as colorectal polyps or tumors, but this is not always the case. The key is to monitor for other symptoms, such as blood in the stool, unintentional weight loss, or persistent abdominal pain.

If you are experiencing persistent green stool along with abdominal discomfort, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend tests such as a stool analysis or imaging studies to rule out any serious conditions. Additionally, keeping a food diary can help identify any dietary triggers that may be contributing to the change in stool color.

In summary, while green stool can be related to dietary choices and gastrointestinal transit time, it is essential to consider the broader context of your health. If you have concerns about jaundice or other gastrointestinal issues, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and peace of mind regarding your health.

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It should be unrelated to health; further observation is warranted.