How to Collect Stool Samples During Diarrhea: Tips for Patients

How to collect stool samples for diarrhea with watery stools?

I have been experiencing diarrhea for a week.
When I eat, my stools are powdery (sinking to the bottom, yellow-brown), and when I don't eat (for an entire day), I have watery stools (yellow liquid).
I consulted a doctor who said that I have significant gastric distension and asked whether I want to treat the gastroenteritis or the gastric distension first.
The doctor also mentioned that my gastroenteritis is not the typical kind that resolves on its own without eating, and that I need to have a stool test! I received medication, and I started taking the medication for gastric distension, which made my stomach feel better, but I am still experiencing watery stools and powdery stools, and I cannot collect a stool sample, so I don't know what type of gastroenteritis I have! The doctor said I need to collect solid stools, but that is not possible! Below are the medications prescribed by the doctor: Gascon Tablets, Loperamide Capsules, Moshu Weiqing Tablets (before meals), Shufuda Oral Suspension Powder (before meals, to be taken 2 hours apart from other medications), and I couldn't take Acetaminophen Tablets (before meals) because I couldn't separate them.
How can I take the medication to achieve solid stools?

Ziluolan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/14

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, Miss Violet.
You can use a bedpan or a basin, and then transfer the sample into the container provided by the hospital.
If your symptoms do not improve, you may return for a follow-up appointment to discuss with your physician whether a change in medication is necessary.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2020/10/14

More Info

Collecting stool samples during a bout of diarrhea can be challenging, especially when the stool is liquid or semi-solid. However, it is essential for diagnosing the underlying cause of your gastrointestinal symptoms. Here are some tips to help you collect stool samples effectively, even when experiencing diarrhea:
1. Timing: Try to collect the stool sample when you feel the urge to go to the bathroom. This is often when the stool is most likely to be formed, even if it's not completely solid.

2. Use the Right Tools: Obtain a clean, dry container specifically designed for stool collection. Many pharmacies provide these containers, which usually come with a lid and a scoop for easy collection. Avoid using regular household containers, as they may not be sterile.

3. Preparation: Before you collect the sample, ensure that the toilet bowl is clean. You can place a clean plastic wrap or a disposable bedpan in the toilet to catch the stool. This makes it easier to collect the sample without contamination.

4. Collection Technique: If you are able to produce any formed stool, use the scoop provided with the collection container to take a sample. Aim for about 1-2 tablespoons of stool. If the stool is liquid, you can collect a small amount using the scoop or pour a small amount directly into the container.

5. Avoid Contamination: Be careful not to let urine or toilet water mix with the stool sample, as this can affect test results. If you are unable to avoid this, it may be best to wait until you can produce a more solid stool.

6. Labeling: Once you have collected the sample, securely close the container and label it with your name, date, and time of collection. This information is crucial for the laboratory to process your sample correctly.

7. Storage and Transport: If you cannot deliver the sample to the lab immediately, store it in a cool place, such as a refrigerator, but do not freeze it. Try to deliver the sample to the laboratory as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours.

8. Follow Instructions: If your doctor has provided specific instructions regarding the stool sample collection, be sure to follow them closely. This may include dietary restrictions or specific medications to avoid before the test.

9. Communicate with Your Doctor: If you continue to have difficulty producing a sample or if your diarrhea persists, inform your doctor. They may suggest alternative methods for testing or provide additional treatments to help manage your symptoms.

10. Dietary Adjustments: While you are trying to collect a stool sample, consider adjusting your diet to include more binding foods, such as bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (often referred to as the BRAT diet). These foods can help firm up stool consistency, making it easier to collect a sample.

In conclusion, while collecting a stool sample during diarrhea can be difficult, following these tips can help ensure that you obtain a sample that is suitable for testing. It is important to communicate with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and any challenges you face in collecting the sample. They can provide further guidance and support to help you manage your gastrointestinal issues effectively.

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