Passing mucus from your bottom – Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

Causes:

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are IBDs that can cause inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to mucus production.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): IBS can sometimes cause changes in bowel habits, including increased mucus production.
• Infections: Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections in the intestines can cause inflammation and mucus discharge.
• Polyps: Growths in the lining of the colon or rectum can sometimes produce mucus.
• Anal Fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus can cause pain and sometimes mucus discharge.
• Rectal Prolapse: When the rectum protrudes from the anus, it can produce mucus.
• Dietary Factors: Certain foods, such as dairy or spicy foods, may contribute to mucus discharge in some individuals.
• Medications: Some medications can have mucus discharge as a side effect.

Diagnosis:

• Medical History: Gathering detailed information about bowel habits, any other symptoms, and relevant medical history.
• Physical Exam: Including a rectal exam to check for abnormalities.
• Stool Tests: To check for infection or blood in the stool.
• Colonoscopy: A procedure where a flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the rectum and colon to visualize the lining and identify any abnormalities.
• Sigmoidoscopy: Similar to a colonoscopy, but examines only the lower part of the colon.

Treatment:

• IBD: Medications to reduce inflammation, such as anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, or immunomodulators. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.
• IBS: Lifestyle changes (such as stress management and dietary modifications), medications to manage symptoms like diarrhea or constipation.
• Infections: Antibiotics, antiviral, or antiparasitic medications, depending on the cause.
• Polyps: Usually removed during a colonoscopy.
• Anal Fissures: Stool softeners, sitz baths, and sometimes topical creams or ointments.
• Rectal Prolapse: May require surgery.
• Dietary Factors: Identifying and avoiding trigger foods.
• Medications: If medication is causing the discharge, the doctor may adjust the medication or recommend an alternative.

Important Considerations:

• Consult a healthcare professional for persistent or frequent mucus discharge from the rectum, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, or changes in bowel habits.
• Do not self-treat without consulting a doctor. Proper diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.