Phlegm in the stool may also refer to mucus in the stool. Small amount of mucus in the stool may not be a major cause of concern, as it is normal. The common causes for mucus in the stools are food allergies or the overgrowth of bacteria. Improving on your dietary patterns can correct this problem. Mucus in the stool gives us an indication that there is an inflammation in the intestines. Stools generally do contain a small amount jelly like coating which is created by the intestines, in order to keep the colon lining slightly moist to ease the process of passing stools. The mucus is generally white or yellow in color. Here are some of the common causes for mucus is the stools:
- Ulcerative Colitis: An inflammation in the mucus membrane of the intestine could lead to ulcers. These ulcers tend to bleed and further produce pus and mucus which are visible in the stools.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome: In this case the lining of the intestine excretes a large amount of mucus in the stools which causes diarrhea.
- Bacterial and parasitic infections are also known to cause mucus in the stools. These infections are also accompanied by fever, diarrhea and cramps in the abdomen. If this infection is severe only an antibiotic would be able to treat the infection.
- Obstruction of the Bowel: This is associated with constipation, cramps in the stomach, swelling of the abdomen, vomiting and passage of mucus in the stools. Obstruction of the bowels could happen for various reasons. It can be treated in a hospital though. In some cases, a surgery may also be required.
- Crohn's disease and celiac disease can be another cause for mucus in the stools. This is often accompanied by diarrhea and bleeding of the stools.
If there is a white coating with teeth marks on the side of your tongue, an excessive of oily foods, dairy and wheat could be the cause for the mucus in the stools. These foods should be avoided as much as possible, until the problem is completely treated. Drinking water and the intake of herbal or food demulcents form a soothing film on the intestinal lining. It is very important to mention to your doctor in case of changes in bowel movement, excessive mucus in the stool especially if it happens too often or it contains traces of blood as that could also be cancerous.
answered by G M