What does it mean if you have mucus in stools?

Answer by  Akiong (34)

You may have these health problems: Ulcerative Colitis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Celiac Disease, Diverticulitis, Gastroenteritis, Intussusception, bacterial (Campylobacter, Salmonella, Shigella, Yersinia) infections, bowel obstruction, colon cancer. If that often happens, you should find a doctor, it can be serious.

Answer by  bubbyboy (9929)

A small amount of mucus in your stools is perfectly normal because your intestines produce mucus to keep the lining smooth. However, a large amount could be serious and your doctor should check you out.

Answer by  champaign9497 (11977)

That can be caused by any number of things the ony way to truly know what it is go see the doctor and let them test you.

Answer by  mcdbeals (201)

It may indicate that you have an internal infection or that your liver is not functioning properly. It may also be a result of eating too many fatty foods.

Answer by  mdrwaltz (51)

It may be a sign of irritable bowel syndrome, bowel obstruction, or bacterial infection. Before it gets worse, you must consult a physician.

Answer by  TJenkins602 (656)

Mucus in the stools could mean a variety of things. Having a visible amopunt of mucus in stools is a common symptom of irritable bowel syndrome. Other things it could be caused by is bacterial infections, Crohn's disease, anal fissure, bowel obstruction could also cause the condition where there is a build up of mucus in stools.

Answer by  negrita (70)

Large visible amounts of mucus in the stool can be a symptom of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and ulcerative colitis. Seen in lesser degree in Crohn's disease.

Answer by  DrMom (854)

Mucus in stools can be caused by a temporary short term intestinal illness. It is also sometimes seen in people with colitis and irritable bowel syndrome. An intestinal infection can cause excess mucus to appear in the stool and bowel obstruction may be suspected if there are other more serious symptoms. Isolated instances of mucusy stools are not particularly concerning.

Answer by  KMcRae (714)

Generally speaking the presence of mucus in the stool is indicative of some form of bacterial infection. Whenever blood or mucus is present in the stool you must see a doctor.

Answer by  DackThrombosis (1093)

I had this happen recently when I was sick with the flu. You can also get it from Crohn's disease or bowel cancer. See your doctor if it persists.