A doctor may need to be seen if a person has bloody mucus in their stool.
Bloody mucus in the stool is commonly associated with inflammatory bowel conditions, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. If a patient is already being treated for bowel disease, bloody mucus in the stool should be observed and reported, but is usually not of immediate concern. Patients with no history of bowel problems and who notice this symptom should contact a physician for evaluation and treatment as soon as possible.
A doctor may prescribe antibiotics for a patient with bloody mucus in the stool to prevent infection in the intestines.
Some mucus is usually present in the stool, although in small amounts. The lining of the intestines produces mucus as a lubricant to keep them healthy and flexible, and levels sometimes fluctuate in response to diet and other factors such as stress. However, bloody mucus in the stool is cause for concern, as it indicates that there is a problem somewhere in the intestine. The stool may also have a soft appearance and patients may experience bowel urgency and other symptoms.
Diagram showing ulcerative colitis and other colon problems that can cause bloody mucus in the stool.
When the intestine is inflamed, mucus production tends to increase and ulcerations can occur, causing blood to seep into the stool. Additionally, people can develop bloody mucus in their stool as a result of an infection, particularly if bacteria are involved, or due to an anal fissure, hemorrhoids, or intestinal obstruction. Signs such as bloating and tenderness or painful bowel movements can help decrease the causes of bloody mucus in the stool.
Ulcerative colitis can cause bloody mucus in the stool.
In people who notice changes in bowel habits, including a change in the frequency of bowel movements or the appearance of stools, bloody mucus is cause for concern. It is a good idea to call a doctor to find out if a stool sample needs to be collected and to make an appointment for a test. A doctor can evaluate the patient and determine what steps, if any, should be taken for treatment. Antibiotics may be prescribed along with a bowel protector to treat the possibility of infections and ulcerations in the intestine.
Bloody mucus in the stool is cause for concern.
People with a history of intestinal problems may experience this symptom periodically, and it is usually indicative of a flare-up somewhere in the intestine. If it persists, a doctor should be consulted to discuss changing the treatment plan. People with colon cancer may also develop this symptom, particularly later in life as they focus on supportive care for comfort rather than aggressive treatment.
