Mucus is a clear, jelly-like substance usually of a whitish or yellowish color. It generally shows that it has trapped air inside it. The inner epithelial lining of the large intestine is responsible for producing mucus. Its purpose is to serve as lubricant by making the inner lining of the intestine very smooth and thus aid in the transportation of stool to the anus.
The presence of small mucus in stool is a very normal and natural occurrence. However, if the amount of mucus in the stool increases, it can be a sign of some other medical condition and thus, medical attention should be sought.
There are numerous conditions which result in mucus appearing in stools. Some of these conditions are discussed below:
Ulcerative colitis
This is when the mucus membrane of the epithelial lining of the large intestine becomes irritated and result in ulcers developing. Because of the presence of this irritation and ulcers in the lining of the intestine, the production of mucus will take place and is therefore passed out in stools.
Bacterial Infection
Certain amounts of bacteria are naturally present in the intestine to smooth the process of digestion. When foreign particles are introduced, the result is an imbalance in the normal amounts of bacteria which leads to bacterial infection. Mucus is then increased in the stool.
Bowel Obstruction
This reason for mucus in the stool is very common. It is usually the result of low water intake, gastric hormone imbalance and increased yeast formation, which in turn causes constipation. Thus, the need for increased production of mucus leads to an increase in its presence in stools.
Internal hemorrhoids
These are caused by straining are common causes of mucus in stools.
Food intolerances
The malabsorption of fructose, lactose intolerances and food allergies can result in mucus in stools.
Diverticulitis
This occurs when inflamed pouches appear in the colon and it is a condition that can lead to mucus in stools.
Colon polyps
Mucus in stools can be caused by colon polyps being present in the colon. The mucus is an indication that they are present.
Other possible causes are:
- Crohn’s Disease – inflammation of the lining of the intestine
- Intestinal parasites especially giardia ( a parasite which lives in the gut)
- Cystic fibrosis – a genetic disease which causes hormones to secrete large amounts of thick mucus.
There are no specific treatments for mucus in stools as most times the situation returns to normal on its own. There are various ways in which the situation can be improved, so long as there are no underlying conditions present. Some are:
- By including specific dietary supplements.
- Increasing the intake of water.
- By taking herbal demulcent. This may be prepared by adding a teaspoon of finely ground flaxseed to a cup of hot water, and leave to soak overnight.
If the situation does not improve over a long period of time, antibiotics may be prescribed.
