Digestive Issues: Oil Stools, Mucus, and Cancer Concerns

Bowel issues?

Hello, Dr.
Chen: I would like to ask about the characteristics of oily stools and stools that contain mucus.
Three weeks ago, I visited a doctor who diagnosed me with mild gastritis, and after taking medication, I felt some improvement! However, I still feel something is off.
I used to snack frequently and have late-night meals.
After starting the medication, I began eating regular meals without snacks or late-night food, and I have also significantly reduced my beverage intake.
Now, three weeks later, my weight has dropped from 80 kg to 76 kg.
Is this weight loss a symptom of cancer? Recently, my stools have been difficult to describe! They are formed but somewhat loose.
Four months ago, I experienced blood in my stool that lasted for about 10 days before resolving.
The day before seeing the doctor, I had a black stool.
Now, I'm unsure if there is still blood in my stool, as I don't see any bright red color.
The stool that I passed recently resembles a color similar to shredded meat, just a bit darker.
What is the likelihood that I have stomach cancer or colorectal cancer? I have an important exam next year, and I really don’t want to have any health issues! Thank you for your help!

Jiaoji de xuesheng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/08/09

Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, if you are concerned about blood in your stool or gastrointestinal bleeding, you can visit a hospital outpatient clinic or get a stool test to check for occult blood.
Steatorrhea (fatty stools) is often caused by pancreatic or small intestine diseases leading to malabsorption.
After a bowel movement, you may notice oily substances floating in the toilet water, which can also be confirmed through stool analysis.
Regarding weight loss, it is important to consider your baseline weight.
For men, the ideal weight can be estimated as (height in cm - 80) * 0.7 ± 10%.
If you were previously overweight and have recently reduced your intake of snacks and late-night meals, a slight weight loss could be beneficial and reasonable for your health.
However, if you experience a significant increase in appetite or maintain your usual diet without increasing physical activity but continue to lose weight rapidly, this is abnormal and warrants further attention.
As for the risk of stomach or colon cancer, it depends on family history and risk factors, making it difficult to generalize.
If you are truly concerned, please consult a gastroenterologist for a thorough examination.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chen Zhi-Ping.

Reply Date: 2004/08/09

More Info

Understanding digestive issues, particularly concerning oil stools, mucus in stools, and potential cancer concerns, can be quite complex and alarming. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a range of gastrointestinal symptoms that warrant careful consideration.

Firstly, let's discuss the characteristics of oil stools and mucus in stools. Oil stools, also known as steatorrhea, typically appear greasy, foul-smelling, and may float in the toilet. This condition often indicates malabsorption, where the body is unable to absorb fats properly, which can be due to various reasons including pancreatic insufficiency, liver disease, or certain gastrointestinal disorders. The presence of mucus in stools can indicate inflammation in the intestines, which may be due to infections, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or other gastrointestinal issues.

Your recent diagnosis of mild gastritis and the subsequent treatment may have contributed to changes in your bowel habits. Gastritis can affect digestion and absorption, leading to changes in stool consistency. Additionally, the dietary changes you've made—reducing snacks and late-night eating—can also impact your digestive health and stool characteristics. Weight loss, in your case from 80 kg to 76 kg over three weeks, can be concerning, especially if it is unintentional. While weight loss can occur due to dietary changes, it can also be a sign of underlying health issues, including gastrointestinal disorders.

Regarding your concerns about cancer, it is essential to understand that while certain symptoms can be associated with gastrointestinal cancers, they are not definitive indicators on their own. The presence of blood in the stool, especially if it was black (which can indicate upper gastrointestinal bleeding), warrants further investigation. The fact that you experienced blood in your stool four months ago and are now noticing changes in stool color and consistency should be discussed with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as a colonoscopy, to rule out any serious conditions.

The risk factors for gastrointestinal cancers, such as gastric or colorectal cancer, include age, family history, certain genetic conditions, and lifestyle factors. While your age (53) and symptoms may raise concerns, it is crucial to approach this with a comprehensive evaluation rather than jumping to conclusions. Regular screenings and consultations with a gastroenterologist can provide clarity and peace of mind.

In summary, while your symptoms may be concerning, they do not automatically indicate cancer. It is vital to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, continue monitoring your symptoms, and follow through with any recommended tests or screenings. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle can significantly impact your overall digestive health. If you experience any new or worsening symptoms, such as increased abdominal pain, persistent changes in bowel habits, or further weight loss, seek medical attention promptly. Your health is paramount, especially with important commitments like exams on the horizon.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Signs and Concerns for Your Health

Hello, Dr. Lin. I am someone who often eats out and usually have greasy takeout for my meals. I typically have a bowel movement once a day. I do not smoke or drink alcohol. In the past, I would often experience stomach pain right after breakfast, which would lead me to have a bow...

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. The consistency of stool is related to diet; consuming greasy foods can lead to diarrhea, while increasing the intake of vegetables and fruits to boost fiber can result in more formed stools, which does not necessarily indicate disease. 2. Symptoms of colorectal cancer ...

Understanding Oily Stools: Causes and Solutions for Liver Health Issues

Hello: I have been a carrier of hepatitis B for over a decade. In April of this year, I experienced an acute episode, with my GPT reaching 1000. The doctor mentioned grade A cirrhosis. Since May, I have been taking Danazol, Milk Thistle, and traditional Chinese medicine. Currentl...

Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, after we ingest lipids, bile produced by the liver is needed to emulsify the lipids, and pancreatic lipase is required for digestion, while the normal intestinal mucosa is responsible for the absorption of lipids. If there is an issue with any of these organs, it may lead ...

Understanding Oily Stools: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help

I consulted a doctor a few days ago due to diarrhea, which improved the next day but changed to soft stools and clay-colored oil. I also noticed oil being expelled with gas. The doctor diagnosed me with enteritis, but after two days of medication, there has been no improvement, a...

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Abnormal fat absorption can lead to fatty stools. Small intestine diseases (such as infections, malabsorption, or lymphatic obstruction) or pancreatic diseases (such as pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer) can cause excessive fat in the stool. If the amount is significant an...

Understanding Bowel Issues: Symptoms and Concerns for Your Health

Hello doctor, today I experienced cramping pain in my abdomen (there's a gurgling sound in the lower left side of my intestines) and diarrhea. Initially, my stool was normal and formed, but I’m not sure if it’s because I ate too much. Later, it turned into watery stools (loo...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is related not only to diet and lifestyle but also to anxiety. Proper management and adjustments can help alleviate symptoms.