What causes stools with mucus and no foul odor at 68?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 68-year-old female. Two weeks ago, I had a gastritis problem and poor intake. Now, for the last four days, I have been passing stool like gum with no foul smell. Only mucus is present in large amounts.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Here are some likely explanations:

Colitis or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Inflammation of the colon can cause mucus in stool, cramping or abdominal pain, and sometimes blood or urgency. Types include ulcerative colitis or microscopic colitis.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): Often occurs in older adults and can worsen after infection or gastritis. It can cause mucus, bloating, and alternating loose or normal stools. Typically, no fever or blood.
Infectious colitis: Can occur after an episode of gastritis or food poisoning and bacterial infections.

Recommended investigations:

Stool test (for infection, blood, and Clostridium difficile).
CBC (complete blood count), CRP (C-reactive protein), or ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) for inflammation and infection markers.
Colonoscopy (if persistent or unclear).
Abdominal ultrasound or CT (computed tomography) if pain is ongoing.

Immediate care at home (while waiting for evaluation):

Stay hydrated.
Avoid milk, spicy foods, or oily foods.
Take light meals (rice, banana, and toast).
Avoid raw vegetables or fruits temporarily.

I hope this has helped you.