Mucus in Stool: Is It Normal or a Sign of IBS? - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Discomfort in the lower right abdomen?

Recently, I've been feeling discomfort in my lower right abdomen, but there is no pain.
I went to the hospital for an examination, and the doctor ordered a routine stool test and a stool occult blood test (EIA).
Today, I received the results for the routine stool test, which showed a negative result for occult blood (O.B.) but a positive result for mucus.
When I collected the stool sample, I didn't see any mucus on the stool.
Is the presence of mucus in the stool normal? I have a history of autonomic nervous system dysregulation and am wondering if this could be related to irritable bowel syndrome.

Kazuya, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/07/20

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Mucus is normal and does not require concern.

Reply Date: 2022/07/20

More Info

The presence of mucus in stool can be a common occurrence and is not always indicative of a serious medical condition. Mucus is a gel-like substance produced by the intestines to help lubricate the stool and protect the intestinal lining. In healthy individuals, small amounts of mucus can be present in the stool without causing concern. However, when there is an increase in mucus production or if it is accompanied by other symptoms, it may warrant further investigation.

In your case, the stool test results indicate a positive for mucus but negative for occult blood, which is a reassuring sign that there is no bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. The absence of blood is particularly important as it can help rule out more serious conditions such as colorectal cancer or significant inflammatory bowel disease. However, the presence of mucus can still be a sign of underlying issues, especially if you are experiencing discomfort in the lower right abdomen.

Given your history of autonomic nervous system dysregulation, it is possible that you may be experiencing symptoms related to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea and constipation. Mucus in the stool is not uncommon in IBS patients, and it can be associated with the increased sensitivity of the intestines.

Other potential causes for increased mucus in the stool include infections, inflammatory bowel diseases (such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis), and food intolerances. If the mucus is accompanied by other symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, or changes in bowel habits, it may be necessary to consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation. This could include additional testing such as stool cultures, imaging studies, or even a colonoscopy if deemed necessary.

It is also important to consider dietary factors that may contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms. Certain foods can irritate the gut and lead to increased mucus production. Keeping a food diary to track your symptoms in relation to your diet may provide valuable insights.

In summary, while the presence of mucus in stool can be normal, especially in small amounts, it is essential to monitor any accompanying symptoms. Given your discomfort and the potential for IBS, it would be advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider. They can help determine if further testing or dietary modifications are necessary to address your symptoms and improve your overall gastrointestinal health.

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