What causes mucus in stool? Is this a concern?
Answer From Sahil Khanna, M.B.B.S., M.S.
A small amount of mucus in stool is usually nothing to worry about. Stool often contains a small amount of mucus. Mucus is a jellylike substance that your intestines make to keep the lining of your colon moist and lubricated.
But you should talk to a healthcare professional if you notice an increased amount of mucus in stool. This is especially true if it begins happening regularly or if you also notice bleeding or a change in bowel habits.
Larger amounts of mucus in stool, associated with diarrhea, may be caused by certain intestinal infections. Bloody mucus in stool or mucus along with belly pain may signal a more serious condition, such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis and even cancer.
With
Sahil Khanna, M.B.B.S., M.S.
Show References
- LaRocque R, et al. Approach to the adult with acute diarrhea in resource-rich settings. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed April 30, 2024.
- Stone CK, et al., eds. Pediatric emergencies. In: Current Diagnosis & Treatment: Emergency Medicine. 8th ed. McGraw Hill; 2017. http://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. Accessed April 30, 2024.
- Herath M, et al. The role of the gastrointestinal mucus system in intestinal homeostasis: Implications for neurological disorders. Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology. 2020; doi:10.3389/fcimb.2020.00248.
Original article: https://www.mayoclinic.org/mucus-in-stool/expert-answers/faq-20058262