Red Mucus in Diarrhea: When to Seek Medical Attention

Diarrhea with bright red mucus?

Hello Doctor: I have irritable bowel syndrome and have frequently experienced diarrhea for a long time.
Currently, I am five months postpartum.
My bowel movements were relatively normal, occurring once every one to two days, with stools that were generally soft but formed, occasionally having unformed soft stools.
I would have a bowel movement once every one to two weeks, but yesterday I had three bowel movements.
During the second one, while using a squat toilet, I strained and noticed a large amount of bright red mucus in the stool.
After that, I had another bowel movement using a seated toilet, and I did not see any blood.
However, until this morning, I occasionally felt a slight warmth in the anal area and mild abdominal pain, along with a sensation of increased intestinal motility.
Seeing a large amount of bright red mucus for the first time has made me a bit worried, and I'm concerned it could be a serious issue.
Additionally, can I undergo a painless gastrointestinal endoscopy while breastfeeding? Thank you, Doctor!

Wanzi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/11/06

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

This situation likely indicates a higher possibility of hemorrhoidal bleeding.
As long as there is no further bleeding, it should not be a major concern.
It is recommended to avoid spicy and irritating foods during this period and to increase the intake of dietary fiber, which can be helpful.
Warm sitz baths should also help alleviate symptoms.
You can purchase hemorrhoidal suppositories at the pharmacy for use.
However, if bleeding persists, it is advisable to consult a physician for evaluation.
If necessary, a colonoscopy can be arranged.
It is safe to undergo a painless gastrointestinal endoscopy while breastfeeding.

Reply Date: 2021/11/06

More Info

When it comes to gastrointestinal symptoms, particularly those involving changes in bowel habits and the presence of unusual substances in stool, it is essential to approach the situation with caution. In your case, the observation of bright red mucus in your stool, especially following a period of increased bowel movements, raises some important considerations.

Firstly, the presence of bright red mucus can indicate several potential issues. In many cases, bright red blood in the stool is associated with conditions affecting the lower gastrointestinal tract, such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or infections. Given your history of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), it is possible that the increased frequency of bowel movements and the straining during defecation may have contributed to the development of hemorrhoids or fissures, which can cause bleeding and mucus discharge.

However, it is also crucial to consider other more serious conditions that could present with similar symptoms, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), infections, or even colorectal polyps and cancer, especially if you are experiencing persistent symptoms. The fact that you mentioned feeling a mild heat sensation around the anus and experiencing abdominal discomfort could suggest an underlying inflammatory process or irritation.

In terms of when to seek medical attention, here are some guidelines:
1. Persistent Symptoms: If the bright red mucus continues to appear in your stool or if you experience worsening abdominal pain, fever, or significant changes in your bowel habits, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly.

2. Signs of Dehydration: If you experience symptoms such as excessive thirst, dry mouth, dizziness, or decreased urination, these could indicate dehydration due to diarrhea, and you should seek care.

3. Severe Pain or Blood: If you notice significant amounts of blood, severe abdominal pain, or any other alarming symptoms, do not hesitate to go to the emergency room.

4. Follow-Up on IBS: Since you have a history of IBS, it would be beneficial to discuss these new symptoms with your healthcare provider, who may recommend further evaluation, such as a colonoscopy, to rule out any serious conditions.

Regarding your question about undergoing a painless gastrointestinal examination while breastfeeding, it is generally safe to have procedures like a colonoscopy while breastfeeding. However, it is essential to inform your healthcare provider about your breastfeeding status, as they may take specific precautions regarding sedation and medication used during the procedure.

In summary, while the presence of bright red mucus in your stool can be alarming, it is essential to assess the overall context of your symptoms. Given your recent changes in bowel habits and the appearance of mucus, it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation and help determine the best course of action for your health and well-being.

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