The past week i have noticed when i move my bowels and wipe myself, I see a clean tissue, but i do notice a slightly clear substance and this happens frequently during the day. I am not a big eater for what its worth...1 moderate main meal.
Hello.
The presence of a clear substance after bowel movements in a 93-year-old male can be concerning and warrants medical attention. This clear substance could be mucus, which is normally secreted by the intestines to help lubricate the stool as it passes through. However, an excess of mucus can indicate various health issues.
Several conditions could lead to the presence of mucus in stool, including:
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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A common disorder affecting the large intestine, causing symptoms like cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits.
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Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation of the bowel, leading to the production of extra mucus.
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Bacterial Infections: Certain bacterial infections in the digestive tract can result in increased mucus production.
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Rectal Ulcers: These can cause mucus and blood in the stool.
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Colorectal Cancer: While less common, it's important to rule out serious conditions like cancer, especially in older adults.
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Proctitis: Inflammation of the lining of the rectum can lead to mucus discharge.
The fact that you don't overeat is good, but dietary habits can also influence bowel health, so discussing your diet with a doctor might be helpful.