Mucus in Stool: Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment and Home Remedies

Mucus is a slimy substance produced by the lining of the intestines to help lubricate and protect the digestive tract. It is normal to have a small amount of mucus in your stool, as it aids in the passage of waste materials. However, excessive white mucus in your stool may be a warning sign of underlying health ailments.

Various factors can contribute to the mucus in stool. In some cases, it may be due to a minor irritation or infection in the gastrointestinal tract. However, in other instances, it could indicate a more severe condition, such as gastrointestinal polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, or colorectal cancer.

Causes of Mucus in Stool

• Minor Irritation: Mucus in stool can result from minor irritation in the intestines. This irritation can be caused by consuming certain foods or medications that irritate the digestive system. Additionally, dehydration or a lack of fibre in the diet can produce excess mucus.
• Infections: Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can also lead to the presence of mucus in stool. These infections can lead to intestinal inflammation, resulting in the production of mucus. Infections such as gastroenteritis or food poisoning are common culprits.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Inflammatory bowel conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can cause chronic gastric inflammation. This chronic inflammation can produce mucus in stool with stomach pain and diarrhoea. 
• Food intolerances: Gluten sensitivity or lactose intolerance can trigger inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract, producing excess mucus. 
• Haemorrhoids: Piles or haemorrhoids can cause irritation and mucus production, often accompanied by bleeding during bowel movements.
• Colorectal cancer: Mucus in stool can sometimes be a sign of colorectal cancer. While other symptoms, such as blood in the stool or unexplained weight loss, are more commonly associated with this condition, mucus can also be a warning sign. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or are over the age of 50, it is essential to consult with your doctor if you notice any changes in your stool.

Diagnosis

If you are experiencing abnormal mucus in your stool, seeking medical advice for a proper diagnosis is crucial. Your doctor will likely conduct a thorough physical assessment and ask about your symptoms and medical history. They may also order additional tests to determine the reason for the mucus in stool.

• Stool analysis: A stool sample may be collected and analysed in a laboratory to check for infections or abnormalities.
• Blood tests: Blood tests may help check for signs of inflammation or infections.
• Colonoscopy: In some cases, doctors may recommend a colonoscopy to evaluate the internal lining of the colon and rectum. This procedure allows the doctor to visually inspect the digestive tract and take biopsies if necessary.

Treatment

The treatment for mucus in stool will depend on the underlying cause. In cases where the mucus results from a minor irritation or infection, it may resolve on its own with time and supportive measures. However, doctors may recommend treatment options for personalised needs if a specific condition is identified.

• Dietary changes: Dietary changes can be classified as a natural treatment for mucus in stool. Increasing your fibre intake and staying hydrated can help regulate bowel movements and reduce mucus production in stool. Avoiding trigger foods that may irritate the digestive system, such as spicy or greasy foods, can also be beneficial.
• Medications: Your doctor may prescribe antidiarrheals or anti-inflammatory drugs and various medications targeting specific conditions, such as antibiotics for infections or immunosuppressants for inflammatory bowel disease, to alleviate symptoms and reduce mucus production.
• Surgery: In severe cases, doctors may recommend surgery to treat underlying conditions such as colorectal cancer, polyps, piles, or complications of inflammatory bowel disease.

Home Remedies for Mucus in Stool

Although consultation with a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan is essential, some home remedies may help alleviate symptoms of mucus in stool, such as:

• Probiotics: Consuming foods or supplements rich in probiotics can boost healthy gut bacteria and reduce inflammation.
• Increase fluid consumption: Drinking plenty of water and clear fluids can help soften stool and reduce gastrointestinal irritation.
• Herbal teas: Various soothing herbal teas, such as honey, peppermint, or chamomile, may relieve digestive issues and reduce mucus production.
• Warm compress: Hot baths or applying a warm compress to the abdomen can help alleviate abdominal pain and discomfort associated with mucus in stool. 
• Stress management: Performing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, can reduce stress levels, which may contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms.

When to Contact a Doctor about Mucus in Stool?

While occasional mucus in stool may not be concerning, it is essential to consult with a doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Persistent or severe symptoms: If you notice persistent mucus in stool with stomach pain or changes in bowel movements that last more than a few days, it is essential to seek medical attention.
• Blood in stool: If you notice bloody mucus in your stool, it may indicate a more severe condition and require immediate medical evaluation.
• Unexplained weight loss: If you are experiencing indescribable weight loss along with mucus in stool, it may indicate an underlying ailment that needs prompt medical attention.

Conclusion

While mucus in stool can be alarming, it is essential to remember that it can have various causes, ranging from minor irritations to more severe conditions. If you notice an increase in mucus production or other concerning symptoms, it is best to consult with a doctor for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early detection and intervention can help address the underlying reason for mucus in stool and improve digestive health. Remember to prioritise your gut health, as it is vital to your overall well-being.