Stool Consistency
Stool consistency is an important parameter in coprological examination, reflecting the physical state of feces and the overall condition of the digestive system. It depends on water content, dietary fiber, fats, presence of mucus, and other components.
- Formed (firm, soft): normal. Stool is sausage-shaped, without excessive mucus or water. Indicates a balanced diet and normal intestinal motility.
- Hard (solid): may occur with constipation, insufficient fluid or rough fiber intake, and slowed intestinal motility.
- Mucoid: typical for inflammatory processes, excessive mucus secretion, digestion and absorption disorders.
- Semi-liquid: may indicate accelerated motility or partial malabsorption. Sometimes observed with dysbiosis or mild intestinal infections.
- Liquid: indicates pronounced diarrhea, possible inflammation, infection, or intoxication.
- Mushy: possible with pancreatic diseases, impaired bile secretion, or intestinal enzyme deficiencies.
- Foamy: usually accompanies fermentation processes, indicates predominance of carbohydrates in the diet and presence of fermentative dyspepsia.
Consistency analysis aids in differential diagnosis of intestinal disorders and assessment of digestive function.