Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Medically reviewed and verified by Kate Burke, MD, MHA
If you have ulcerative colitis (UC), you know that changes in your stool can be more than just a nuisance. They can be a key indicator of how well you're managing your condition. It might be uncomfortable to think about, but monitoring your stool is an important part of living with a condition like UC! How exactly does this chronic condition impact your bowels and ultimately your bowel movements? Here is an overview from PatientsLikeMe.
How Ulcerative Colitis Changes Your Stool
As an inflammatory bowel disease, UC primarily affects the large intestine and rectum. Inflammation in these areas can lead to significant changes in your stool. These changes can include increased frequency, looseness, and the presence of mucus or blood.
Mucus in Stool
Mucus is a slippery, gel-like substance that helps lubricate the intestines. When you have UC, the lining of your intestines becomes inflamed and may produce extra mucus. When mucus is in your stool it often appears as a thin, whitish or yellowish layer. There could also be chunks mixed with the stool. You might notice it at the end of a bowel movement or throughout. A small amount of mucus is generally not a cause for concern. However, a significant increase in mucus can mean that your intestines are inflamed or that the natural mucus lining has been disrupted.
To manage mucus-related symptoms:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help flush out mucus.
- Adjust Your Diet: Identify and avoid foods that trigger your symptoms.
- Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of how much mucus is present and discuss any changes with your doctor.
Blood in Stool
Blood in the stool is often a result of ulcers or sores in the lining of your colon or rectum. It can vary in color from bright red to dark and tarry. Bright red blood usually means there is bleeding from the lower part of your digestive tract, such as the rectum. Dark or tarry stool might suggest bleeding further up in the digestive system. While some bleeding is common in UC, the amount and frequency of blood can indicate the severity of your flare-up. Severe bleeding or consistent blood in your stool warrants immediate medical attention.
Managing blood in stool usually consists of:
- Medication Adjustments: Your doctor might need to adjust your medication to better control inflammation.
- Iron Supplements: Chronic bleeding can lead to anemia, so iron supplements or dietary changes may be necessary.
- Emergency Care: Seek urgent medical attention if you experience severe bleeding, fainting, or vomiting blood.
Managing your Bowel Movements
Frequency
UC often leads to an increased frequency of bowel movements. During a flare-up, you might have more than 10 bowel movements a day, which can be very distressing. These frequent, loose stools are a sign of inflammation and increased activity in your intestines. To help manage this, try making an adjustment to your diet. Eat smaller, more frequent meals and avoid foods that exacerbate diarrhea. Rehydrate with fluids and electrolytes to replace lost fluids.
Consistency
UC can also make your stool very loose and watery, especially during flare-ups. The consistency can vary, from slightly loose to entirely liquid. Loose stools are a result of the colon's inability to absorb water due to inflammation. How can you help prevent this? Certain foods create gas that worsen symptoms. Try to avoid them. Anti-diarrheal medications may also help. Consult with your doctor before taking these.
When to Get Medical Attention
It's important to recognize when your symptoms might require medical care. Contact your doctor if you experience:
- Heavy diarrhea
- Blood clots in your stool
- Severe pain or fever
Seek immediate care if you feel faint from blood loss, have severe bleeding, or are vomiting blood.
Ulcerative colitis can change your stool. It can add mucus and blood or change the frequency and consistency of your poops. By understanding these changes and how to manage them, you can better control your symptoms. Always work closely with your healthcare provider to adjust your treatment as needed.
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