Mucus in the stool

) could be the sign of some problems and / or conditions of a pathological nature, which typically affect the digestive system. If this phenomenon becomes particularly frequent or abundant, it is advisable to determine the causes with the help of the doctor.

produces an excess of this viscous substance, to protect the innermost layer of the enteric wall.

From a physiological point of view, mucus is used as a lubricant to facilitate the passage of stool. Under normal conditions, this substance appears as a rather transparent liquid and almost impossible to see with the naked eye; when, on the other hand, it is excessive and continuous, the presence of mucus could be an indication of some type of infection or of some gastrointestinal pathologies.
At other times, the mucus may be yellow or white in color; this staining causes greater concern in the patient, as it makes mucorrhea more evident.

or changes in bowel activity, it is good to consult your doctor as soon as possible.

Behind the increase in mucus in the feces can in fact also hide important problems, such as:

• Ulcerative colitis;
• Proctitis (inflammation of the mucous membrane);
• Crohn's disease;
• Various intestinal infections;
• Diarrhea;
• Irritable bowel syndrome.

In such circumstances, it becomes of fundamental importance to act with a timely and obviously correct diagnosis. The attending physician may then ask for further tests, which may include both blood and urine tests, as well as a stool test.
In the event of suspicion of intestinal pathologies, a colonoscopy can also be carried out, while an endoscopy is typically recommended for the upper part of the gastric apparatus.

in fact it acts as a lubricant, able to facilitate the passage of faeces and to protect the innermost layer of the enteric wall with which they come into contact.

Mucus generally appears whitish, jelly-like in consistency.

(steatorrhea), which makes them greasy, shiny and shiny. Mucus-covered stools may appear in whitish patches instead.

Mucorrhea is typical of proctitis (inflammation of the rectal mucosa), ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease and intestinal infections of a bacterial nature (Campylobacter, Salmonella, Shigella); in these cases it is often accompanied by diarrhea and the presence of blood in the stool.
The excessive presence of mucus can also be linked to irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, food allergies or intolerances and alterations in the normal intestinal bacterial flora, in response to incorrect eating habits (excess of refined foods).
Other causes of mucorrhea include:

• Viral or parasitic infections affecting the intestine;
• Anal fissures;
• Colorectal cancer;
• Cystic fibrosis;
• Diverticulitis;
• Diseases due to enzyme deficiencies (such as lactase or sucrase-isomaltase deficiency).