Sticky, Blood-tinged Stool: Causes and Symptoms Explained

Sticky stools with blood?

Hello, Doctor:
1.
When wiping after a bowel movement, the toilet paper often feels sticky, which seems to be mucus.
This has been happening for almost a year.
What could this symptom indicate?
2.
If the stool feels sticky when wiped and has some streaks of blood, but there is no mucus on the surface of the stool in the toilet, although there are some streaks of blood on the surface, what could this symptom indicate? (My weight has not changed, and the shape of the stool is normal.) Thank you, Doctor!

Chen Sheng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/03

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, it is recommended to consult with Dr.
Chen Chi-Feng, the attending physician of the Gastroenterology Department at Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, for colorectal surgery.

Reply Date: 2015/10/03

More Info

Understanding sticky, blood-tinged stool can be concerning, and it’s important to address the symptoms you’re experiencing. Based on your description, the presence of sticky, mucous-like stool and blood-tinged wipes could indicate several underlying conditions, but it is essential to approach this systematically.

1. Mucous in Stool: The presence of mucus in your stool can be a normal occurrence, as the intestines produce mucus to help with the passage of stool. However, if you notice an increase in the amount of mucus or if it is accompanied by other symptoms, it could indicate an underlying issue. Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, or infections can lead to increased mucus production.
2. Blood in Stool: The presence of blood, even if it’s just a small amount on the toilet paper, should not be ignored. Blood can appear in stool for various reasons, ranging from benign to serious conditions. Common causes include hemorrhoids, anal fissures, diverticulosis, or more serious conditions like colorectal polyps or cancer. The fact that you mentioned the stool itself does not appear to have blood but that you see blood on the toilet paper could suggest that the bleeding is occurring in the lower gastrointestinal tract, possibly from the rectum or anus.

3. Symptoms to Monitor: While you mentioned that your weight has remained stable and the shape of your stool is normal, it’s important to monitor for other symptoms. These could include abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhea or constipation), fever, or any significant changes in your overall health.
4. When to Seek Medical Attention: Given that these symptoms have persisted for almost a year, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare provider. They may recommend a thorough evaluation, which could include a physical examination, stool tests, and possibly imaging studies or a colonoscopy to visualize the colon and rectum directly. This is particularly important if you experience any worsening of symptoms or if new symptoms arise.

5. Potential Tests: Your doctor may suggest several tests to determine the cause of your symptoms. These could include:
- Stool tests: To check for infections or blood.

- Colonoscopy: A procedure that allows the doctor to look at the inner lining of your colon and rectum.

- Blood tests: To check for signs of infection, inflammation, or anemia.

6. Lifestyle and Dietary Considerations: While awaiting your appointment, consider your diet and lifestyle. Increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, and avoiding irritants (like spicy foods or excessive caffeine) may help alleviate some gastrointestinal symptoms.
In conclusion, while the symptoms you describe can be associated with various conditions, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes, especially if there are underlying issues that need to be addressed. Remember, your health is paramount, and seeking medical advice is always a wise decision when experiencing persistent or concerning symptoms.

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