Digestive Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Advice

Q: Digestive Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Advice

Dear Ms. Niko： 1. Stool is a mixture of undigested food remnants, digestive juices, and secretions that remain after the digestion and absorption of food through the gastrointestinal tract. Approximately 1,500 c.c. of chyme, which is a semi-liquid substance dig

Please ask your question?

Hello doctor, I felt some discomfort in my abdomen while having a bowel movement.
At first, it was formed, but then it became somewhat watery.
I tried to push to clear it out, but later some sticky, mucus-like substance came out (and the stool was a bit yellowish).
I would like to ask what this might be and if I need to go to the hospital for an examination.
I plan to visit a nearby pediatrician tomorrow.
I'm wondering if I might have an upset stomach because, although there is no pain, it feels like my gastrointestinal motility is increased.
I just had another bowel movement, and while it wasn't entirely watery, it was somewhat loose.
I'm not sure if the sticky substance indicates any illness, and I'm a bit worried… I hope you can help clarify this.
Thank you.

Niko, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/10/01

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Ms.
Niko:
1.
Stool is a mixture of undigested food remnants, digestive juices, and secretions that remain after the digestion and absorption of food through the gastrointestinal tract.
Approximately 1,500 c.c.
of chyme, which is a semi-liquid substance digested by digestive juices, enters the colon daily.
Most nutrients from the food consumed are absorbed in the small intestine, while the colon primarily absorbs water and electrolytes, leaving about 100 c.c.
of water.
The absorption in the colon mainly occurs in the first half, while the latter half primarily functions to store stool.
The colon contains a diverse microbiota, with over 100 trillion bacteria, some of which are harmful and can lead to cancer, while beneficial bacteria produce energy-yielding nutrients and synthesize vitamins such as K, B12, B2, B1, and various gases.
Stool is composed of three-quarters water and one-quarter solid matter.
The solid content includes approximately 30% undigested fibrous food residues, bile pigments, sloughed epithelial cells, about 30% dead bacteria, 10-20% inorganic matter, 10-20% fat, and 2-3% protein.
The color of stool typically ranges from yellow to brown, attributed to stercobilin and urobilin, derivatives of bilirubin; however, variations in color may occur due to the types of food consumed.
The odor of stool is primarily caused by substances produced by bacterial activity, and variations in odor can result from differences in the types and quantities of bacteria in an individual's colon and the types of food ingested.
2.
When observing stool color, it is important to check for black stools resembling hair or tar, which may indicate upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
Additionally, one should be attentive to the presence of fresh blood on the stool's surface; while this is often due to internal or external hemorrhoids, a small portion of such blood may be caused by colorectal cancer.
3.
If the stool appears greasy, it may indicate a problem with the pancreas.
The pancreas secretes enzymes necessary for fat digestion, and insufficient secretion of these enzymes due to pancreatic disease can lead to incomplete fat digestion, resulting in greasy-looking stool.
4.
Grayish-white stool may result from bile duct obstruction due to gallstones, tumors, or other causes.
The yellow color of stool comes from the breakdown products of bilirubin; therefore, when bilirubin in bile cannot reach the gastrointestinal tract due to bile duct obstruction, the stool may become uncolored and turn grayish-white.
If the stool is coated with a mucus-like substance and mixed with blood, various causes of colitis should be considered.
5.
Your concerns may warrant consideration of acute gastroenteritis, colitis, viral infections, or other causes; please discuss and consult with your attending physician for evaluation before reaching any conclusions.

Reply Date: 2023/10/01

More Info

When experiencing digestive discomfort, especially when it involves changes in stool consistency and appearance, it is important to pay attention to the symptoms and consider seeking medical advice. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing some gastrointestinal distress characterized by variations in stool consistency, including the presence of mucus-like substances and a change in color.

The symptoms you describe—initially having formed stools that later became softer and eventually included a sticky, mucus-like substance—could indicate several potential issues. The presence of mucus in the stool can be a normal occurrence, as mucus is produced by the intestines to help lubricate the passage of stool. However, when it is accompanied by changes in stool consistency, color, or if there are any additional symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, or blood in the stool, it could warrant further investigation.

Given that you mentioned the stool has a yellowish tint and that you are experiencing a sensation of increased bowel motility, it is possible that you may be dealing with a mild gastrointestinal infection, food intolerance, or even a reaction to something you recently consumed. Conditions such as viral gastroenteritis, food poisoning, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) could lead to similar symptoms.
It is wise to consult a healthcare provider, especially since you are planning to visit a pediatrician. While pediatricians primarily focus on children, they can still provide valuable insights and guidance regarding gastrointestinal issues. If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you develop additional symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, or dehydration, it would be advisable to seek care from a gastroenterologist or your primary care physician.

In terms of what to look for that may indicate a need for more urgent medical attention, consider the following red flags:
1. Severe Abdominal Pain: If you experience significant pain that does not improve or worsens, this could indicate a more serious condition.

2. Blood in Stool: The presence of blood, whether bright red or dark and tarry, should prompt immediate medical evaluation.

3. Persistent Diarrhea: If diarrhea lasts more than a couple of days or is accompanied by fever or dehydration, it is important to seek medical care.

4. Signs of Dehydration: Symptoms such as excessive thirst, dry mouth, reduced urination, or dizziness can indicate dehydration, which requires prompt treatment.

In the meantime, ensure you stay hydrated, especially if you are experiencing diarrhea. Drinking clear fluids, such as water or oral rehydration solutions, can help maintain hydration levels. Avoiding heavy, greasy, or spicy foods until your symptoms resolve can also be beneficial.

In summary, while some digestive discomfort can be self-limiting and may resolve on its own, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If you notice any concerning signs or if your symptoms persist, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Your health is important, and a healthcare professional can provide the necessary evaluation and treatment to help you feel better.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello, for the past few months, I have been experiencing discomfort in my gastrointestinal tract, with frequent lower abdominal pain and bloating. My appetite has decreased, and I have been vomiting after eating. Additionally, I have noticed blood in my stool. I would like to kno...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist, as a physician's interview and physical examination are necessary to determine what tests should be arranged. It is advised to consume more fruits and vegetables, stay hydrated, avoid irritating foods, and have daily ...

Understanding Digestive Discomfort: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation

Hello, Dr. Tsai. Over the past two to three months, I have frequently experienced not just a general feeling of fullness after eating, but also unusual discomfort symptoms that are different from before. The main issue is an abnormal increase in peristalsis and belching. Occasion...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Please pay attention to whether you have consumed irritating foods that may cause rapid gastrointestinal motility, or if you are experiencing tension and anxiety. If dietary changes do not improve the situation, it is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist for appropr...

Understanding Digestive Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice

Since the start of last school year (September), I have been experiencing mild pain on the sides of my abdomen and in the four corners. At that time, my bowel movements were not very smooth, and the doctor diagnosed me with constipation, advising me to drink more water and eat ve...

Dr. Luo Yining reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
If symptoms persist or worsen despite adjustments in lifestyle and dietary habits, it is recommended to consult a pediatrician or a pediatric gastroenterologist for further evaluation and treatment.

Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Help

Hello, doctor. My cousin seems to have a very poor digestive system. Every time he eats, he has to rush to the bathroom immediately, and it's not just once; it's usually two or three times before he feels better. I would like to ask what kind of problem this symptom mig...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Ms. Peipei: It is likely that you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), which can cause digestive discomfort. You may want to visit a gastroenterology clinic for a basic examination to rule out other possibilities. Additionally, adjusting your diet and managing stress, along...