Oct 10, 2024 · Stool comes in a range of colors. All shades of brown and even green are considered typical. Only rarely does stool color indicate a possibly serious intestinal condition. Stool color is generally influenced by what you eat as well as by the amount of bile — a yellow-green fluid that digests fats — in your stool. As bile travels through your digestive tract, it is …

Jan 18, 2025 · Diarrhea — loose, watery and possibly more-frequent passage of stool — is a common problem. Sometimes, it's the only symptom of a condition. At other times, it may be associated with other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain or weight loss. Luckily, diarrhea is usually short-lived, lasting no more than a few days.

Oct 20, 2023 · Overview Constipation is a problem with passing stool. Constipation generally means passing fewer than three stools a week or having a difficult time passing stool. Constipation is fairly common. A lack of dietary fiber, fluids and exercise can cause constipation. But other medical conditions or certain medicines may be the cause.

Nov 27, 2024 · Overview Fecal incontinence is accidental passing of solid or liquid stool. Fecal incontinence may happen when a person has a sudden urge to pass stool and cannot get to a toilet in time. Also, stool may leak when a person doesn't sense the need to pass stool. Common causes of fecal incontinence include diarrhea, constipation, and muscle or nerve damage. …

Oct 12, 2023 · Undigested food in stool isn't a problem unless it occurs with lasting diarrhea, weight loss or other changes in your bowel habits. If you have such signs and symptoms, talk to your health care provider.

Jan 18, 2025 · Diagnosis Your healthcare professional will likely ask about your medical history, review the medicines you take and conduct a physical exam. Your health professional may order tests to determine what's causing your diarrhea. Possible tests include: Blood tests. A complete blood count, measurement of electrolytes and tests of kidney function can help indicate how …

Mar 6, 2025 · Stool softeners are generally considered safe during pregnancy. Pregnancy constipation, defined as having fewer than three bowel movements a week, can be uncomfortable. Constipation is common in pregnancy. Stool softeners, such as docusate sodium (Colace) and docusate calcium (Surfak), moisten the stool and make it easier to pass. These …

May 30, 2024 · 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 …

Jul 8, 2005 · Call a healthcare professional if you or your child has green stool for more than a few days. Green stool often happens with diarrhea, so drink plenty of fluids and seek immediate medical attention if you or your child becomes dehydrated.

Oct 13, 2023 · Overview Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is a sign of a disorder in the digestive tract. The blood often shows up in stool or vomit but isn't always obvious. Stool may look black or tarry. Bleeding can range from mild to severe and can be life-threatening. Imaging technology or an endoscopic investigation can usually locate the cause of the bleeding. Treatment depends on …