Is Your Stool Normal? Yellow Stool and Gas Issues - Surgery

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Is my stool normal?


The stool is yellow, well-formed, and somewhat soft, but there is white mucus on the surface in the middle, and the surface is uneven.
Four days ago, I experienced abdominal pain for one day, with bloating and pain that made it difficult to sit.
The pain eased after bowel movements, but for the past 3 to 4 days, I have been passing gas continuously.
Initially, both the gas and stool had a strong odor, but after two days, I continued to pass gas daily without any odor, occurring every 15 to 30 minutes.
Is this really not a problem? P.S.
Last Saturday, I accidentally drank a few sips of spoiled milk.
Could that have an effect? I have a history of stomach pain.

Liang Xiaojie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/08/04

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery


Based on your description, the onset of symptoms seems to correlate quite well with the timing of milk consumption, and it is indeed possible that these symptoms are related to the milk.
If you return to normal within a week, there is no need for concern; otherwise, you should seek medical attention.

Reply Date: 2011/08/04

More Info


When it comes to gastrointestinal issues, particularly those involving changes in stool color, consistency, and the presence of gas, it’s essential to consider a variety of factors that could be contributing to these symptoms. In your case, the presence of yellow stool, the formation of white mucus, and the increased frequency of flatulence could indicate several underlying conditions.

Firstly, yellow stool can be a result of several factors, including dietary changes, malabsorption issues, or infections. The fact that your stool is soft but formed, along with the presence of white mucus, suggests that there may be some irritation or inflammation in your gastrointestinal tract. Mucus in the stool can be a normal finding, as the intestines produce mucus to help with the passage of stool. However, excessive mucus can indicate an underlying issue, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), infections, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

The abdominal pain you experienced four days ago, which improved after a bowel movement, could be related to gas buildup or constipation. It’s not uncommon for individuals to experience discomfort due to trapped gas, especially if they have a history of gastrointestinal issues. The fact that you are experiencing frequent flatulence, initially with a foul odor and now without, may suggest that your gut flora is adjusting, possibly due to dietary changes or the consumption of spoiled milk.

Drinking spoiled milk can lead to gastrointestinal upset, including diarrhea, gas, and abdominal pain. If your body reacted to the spoiled milk, it could have temporarily altered your gut flora or caused a mild infection, leading to the symptoms you are experiencing. It’s also important to consider that if you have a history of stomach pain, you may be more susceptible to gastrointestinal disturbances.

In terms of management, here are some recommendations:
1. Dietary Adjustments: Pay attention to your diet. Avoid foods that are known to cause gas, such as beans, carbonated beverages, and certain vegetables like broccoli and cabbage. Instead, focus on a balanced diet rich in fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which can help regulate bowel movements.

2. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, to help with digestion and to prevent constipation.

3. Probiotics: Consider incorporating probiotics into your diet, as they can help restore the balance of good bacteria in your gut, especially after experiencing gastrointestinal upset.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including any changes in stool color, consistency, and frequency of gas. If the symptoms persist or worsen, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

5. Medical Evaluation: If you continue to experience abdominal pain, significant changes in your bowel habits, or if you notice blood in your stool, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider may recommend tests such as stool analysis, blood tests, or imaging studies to rule out any serious conditions.

In summary, while occasional changes in stool color and increased gas can be normal, particularly after dietary indiscretions, persistent or severe symptoms warrant further investigation. It’s essential to listen to your body and seek medical advice if you have concerns about your gastrointestinal health.

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