Physical Properties of Stool
Physical properties of stool are an important part of the general stool analysis and help assess the condition of the digestive system. The following parameters are evaluated during the study:
Volume
The normal stool volume is approximately 100–250 grams per day. An increase in volume may indicate diarrhea, a decrease — constipation or malabsorption of nutrients.
Consistency
Normal stool has a formed or mushy consistency. Liquid stool indicates diarrhea, and very hard stool indicates constipation. Mucous consistency may indicate inflammatory processes in the intestines.
Color
The usual stool color varies from yellow to brown. Color changes may indicate various disorders:
- Black (tarry) — a sign of bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract.
- Light, clay-colored — possible with impaired bile secretion.
- Red — may indicate bleeding from the lower parts of the intestine.
- Green — often associated with accelerated transit of food through the intestines or consumption of certain foods.
Odor
Stool has an unpleasant but not sharp odor. A strong foul smell may indicate putrefactive processes or infections in the intestines.
Presence of Mucus
Normally, mucus in stool is absent or present in insignificant amounts. An increased amount of mucus may indicate inflammatory bowel diseases, infections, or allergic reactions.
Presence of Blood
Normally, blood is absent. Its presence — both visible and occult (detected by special tests) — requires further examination to exclude mucosal damage, tumors, or other pathologies.
Foam
Foam is normally absent in stool. Its appearance may indicate impaired digestion, especially with increased fat or protein content.