Orange Discoloration Around Stool: Is It a Sign of Blood?

The water surrounding the stool appears orange?

Sometimes after bowel movements, there is a slight orange discoloration in the water surrounding the stool.
I am unsure if this is a sign of superficial blood in the stool.
Thank you, doctor.

Zhang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/22

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Abnormal stool color is often caused by food residues, with common culprits including carrots, dragon fruit, tomatoes, and pumpkin.
Taking vitamin B complex can also be a contributing factor.
It is advisable to temporarily avoid dark-colored foods and monitor the situation.

Reply Date: 2021/07/22

More Info

The presence of orange discoloration around stool can be concerning, and it's understandable to question whether this might indicate the presence of blood. However, based on the information provided and general medical knowledge, there are several factors to consider regarding this phenomenon.

Firstly, the color of stool is primarily influenced by bile, which contains bilirubin, a pigment that gives stool its characteristic brown color. When stool is submerged in water for an extended period, as you described, it is possible for some of the pigments to leach out into the water, resulting in a discoloration that may appear orange or reddish. This is not uncommon and is typically not a cause for alarm, especially if the stool itself does not show any signs of blood.

In your case, if the stool appears normal in color and consistency, and there are no visible signs of blood (such as red streaks or dark, tarry stools), it is likely that the orange discoloration is due to the breakdown of bile pigments or possibly food pigments from your diet. Foods rich in carotenoids, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and certain fruits, can also contribute to changes in stool color. If you have consumed such foods recently, this could explain the discoloration.

Moreover, if you have undergone a fecal occult blood test (FOBT) and the results were negative, this further reduces the likelihood that the orange discoloration is due to bleeding. The FOBT is a reliable screening tool for detecting hidden blood in the stool, which can indicate gastrointestinal bleeding. If you have had negative results from this test, it suggests that there is no significant bleeding occurring in your gastrointestinal tract.

However, it is essential to monitor your symptoms. If you notice any changes, such as the appearance of blood in your stool, persistent changes in bowel habits, or other gastrointestinal symptoms (like pain, discomfort, or changes in appetite), it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend further evaluation, such as a repeat FOBT, a colonoscopy, or other diagnostic tests, depending on your medical history and symptoms.

In summary, while orange discoloration around stool can be alarming, it is often related to non-pathological factors such as dietary influences or the leaching of bile pigments into the water. Given that you have had negative results from previous tests for blood in the stool, it is likely that there is no cause for concern. Nonetheless, staying vigilant about any changes in your health and seeking medical advice when necessary is always a good practice.

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