What are the possible causes of light-colored stools?

Question

Hi doctor,

Just today, I am having light-colored stools. I am still pooping and eating normally. I have bloating, but that is normal as I have sometimes with certain food. I have pooped three times, and all have been lighter colors. Please help.

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

1. Sometimes, a large spectrum of stool colors is considered normal, from dark brown to yellow or even greenish. One crucial medical concern related to significantly lighter stools is the liver and gall bladder, so you had some issues with your stomach a few days ago. I recommend you check your blood for liver function tests and an ultrasound abdomen to evaluate liver and biliary channels.

2. There has been no significant change in your diet in the previous couple of days, which can explain the lighter color of your stools.

3. Is there any yellow discoloration of the skin and sclera of your eyes?

You can also attach a picture of your stool so that I can help.

I hope this information will help you.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

1. You can use antacid syrup like Gaviscon (Sodium alginate) 10 ml after every meal for a couple of days to resolve your bloating and dyspeptic symptoms.

2. Add probiotics to your diet for one to two weeks. Commercially available probiotics, one capsule or sachet daily to increase the healthy bacteria load in your gut.

3. There are no alarming symptoms in your case, which I have asked. Take a regular diet, and your color will return to normal soon.

4. For persistent lighter stools, yellow discoloration of the skin, upper abdominal pain, or nausea, you will have to go for liver function tests, an ultrasound abdomen, and a detailed stool report.

Consult a specialist doctor and take medications with their consent.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.