Orange-Red Stool Water: Causes and When to Seek Help

Orange-red watery stool?

Hello Doctor, I am 21 years old and for the past few months, I have occasionally noticed orange-red liquid next to my stool after having a bowel movement (the stool itself and the color when wiping are both normal brownish-yellow).
A few days before experiencing this symptom, I had eaten some carrots and pumpkin, but not in large amounts.
I would like to know what could be causing this.
Could it be bleeding? Three years ago, I had a colonoscopy, which showed only mild internal hemorrhoids and irritable bowel syndrome.
This orange-red condition shouldn't be colon cancer, right? Do I still need to have another colonoscopy? Thank you, Doctor.

Nìmíng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/02

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, regarding your concerns, whether there is gastrointestinal bleeding requires further examination for clarification.
It is advisable to visit a gastroenterology clinic for evaluation.
Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide a diagnosis or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2021/09/02

More Info

The presence of orange-red stool water can be concerning, especially when it appears unexpectedly. Based on your description, there are several potential causes for this symptom, and it’s important to consider both dietary influences and possible medical conditions.

Firstly, the color of stool and any accompanying water can be influenced significantly by what you eat. As you mentioned consuming carrots and pumpkin, both of these foods contain carotenoids, which can impart an orange hue to bodily fluids. Carrots, in particular, are known for their high beta-carotene content, which can lead to a temporary change in stool color. If the orange-red water appears only after consuming these foods, it is likely a benign dietary effect.

However, it is also essential to rule out any potential medical issues. The fact that your stool itself remains a normal yellow-brown color is reassuring. The presence of orange-red water could indicate a few possibilities:
1. Hemorrhoids: Given your history of internal hemorrhoids, it is possible that minor bleeding from these could cause a reddish tint in the water. Hemorrhoids can cause bright red blood to appear in the stool or on toilet paper, but if the blood is mixed with stool, it may not be as noticeable.

2. Anal Fissures: These are small tears in the lining of the anus, often caused by passing hard stools. They can lead to bleeding and may result in red water.

3. Gastrointestinal Issues: Conditions such as diverticulitis or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can cause bleeding and changes in stool appearance. However, these conditions typically present with other symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, or changes in bowel habits.

4. Dietary Factors: As mentioned, certain foods can change the color of stool and any accompanying water. Foods high in pigments, like beets or certain artificial colorings, can also lead to unusual colors.

Regarding your concern about colorectal cancer, it is important to note that while changes in stool color can be alarming, they are not definitive indicators of cancer, especially in the absence of other symptoms such as weight loss, persistent abdominal pain, or changes in bowel habits. Your previous colonoscopy, which showed only minor issues, is also reassuring.

Given your age and the fact that you have had a colonoscopy in the past three years, it is unlikely that this symptom is related to colorectal cancer. However, if the orange-red water persists, increases in frequency, or is accompanied by other symptoms (such as pain, significant changes in bowel habits, or weight loss), it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

In summary, while the orange-red stool water you are experiencing could be related to dietary factors, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you notice any changes or if the symptom persists, seeking medical advice would be a wise decision. Regular check-ups and being attentive to your body’s signals are key components of maintaining gastrointestinal health.

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