Blood-Streaked Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Mucus in stool with blood?

I am 29 years old, occasionally drink alcohol, smoke, and usually stay up late.
Today, after grilling meat, I suddenly experienced severe abdominal pain.
Initially, it might have been due to constipation, as my stool came out in small, hard pieces with little tails.
The second time I had pain, I passed a lot of soft stools.
After that, I continued to experience intermittent abdominal pain, and during the third and fourth times I went to the bathroom, I only passed mucus mixed with red color.
When I wiped, the toilet paper had a light red stain.
Doctor, what kind of gastrointestinal issue could I be experiencing? I'm feeling quite anxious about it.

Xiao Bai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/15

Dr. Cai Jinji reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Dear Mr.
Xiao Bai, based on your description, it is recommended that you seek a consultation with a colorectal specialist as soon as possible.
Dr.
Cai Jin-ji, Head of the Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology Department, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2020/10/15

More Info

Blood-streaked mucus in stool can be concerning and may indicate several underlying gastrointestinal issues. Given your symptoms, it’s essential to consider a few potential causes and the necessary steps to address them.

Firstly, the presence of blood in your stool, especially when accompanied by mucus, can be indicative of several conditions. Some common causes include:
1. Hemorrhoids: These are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus that can cause bleeding during bowel movements. If you have been experiencing constipation, straining during bowel movements can exacerbate this condition.

2. Anal Fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus can occur due to passing hard stools, leading to pain and bleeding.

3. Gastrointestinal Infections: Infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites can lead to inflammation of the intestines, resulting in mucus and blood in the stool.

4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and blood in the stool.

5. Diverticulitis: This condition occurs when small pouches (diverticula) in the colon become inflamed or infected, which can lead to abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits, including blood-streaked mucus.

6. Colorectal Polyps or Cancer: While less common in younger individuals, polyps can develop in the colon and may bleed. In some cases, they can be precursors to colorectal cancer.

Given your lifestyle factors, such as occasional alcohol consumption, smoking, and irregular sleep patterns, these could contribute to gastrointestinal discomfort. Alcohol can irritate the gastrointestinal lining, and smoking is known to increase the risk of various gastrointestinal diseases.

Recommendations:
1. Seek Medical Attention: It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible. They may recommend a physical examination, stool tests, or imaging studies to determine the exact cause of your symptoms.

2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any additional symptoms, such as changes in bowel habits, weight loss, fever, or persistent abdominal pain. This information will be helpful for your healthcare provider.

3. Dietary Adjustments: Consider increasing your fiber intake to help alleviate constipation, which may reduce straining during bowel movements. Staying hydrated is also essential.

4. Avoid Irritants: Reducing or eliminating alcohol and tobacco use can improve your overall gastrointestinal health and reduce irritation.

5. Follow-Up: Depending on the findings, your doctor may recommend further evaluation, such as a colonoscopy, especially if there is a concern for IBD or polyps.

In summary, while blood-streaked mucus in stool can arise from various conditions, it is essential to take your symptoms seriously and seek medical evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and help manage any underlying conditions effectively.

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