What Is Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)?

Various bacteria are present in the human small intestine as part of normal intestinal flora, but when they overgrow, they may cause diarrhea. They may also break down bile acids, necessary for absorption of fats, thus reducing absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins A, D and E. In severe cases, bacteria may damage small intestinal wall thus impairing carbohydrate and protein absorption resulting in malnutrition. Anemia may develop, when bacteria break down vitamin B12.

continue reading Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO): Symptoms, Treatment

Mucus, a translucent, jelly like substance that appears in the stool is produced by mucous glands that line the small and large intestine.

Mucus in Otherwise Normal Bowel Movements

Certain amount of mucus is regularly present in normal stools in healthy persons. Mucus in normal semi-soft stools may appear in bellow conditions:

Hemorrhoids

Internal hemorrhoids are common cause of mucus in the stool. Mucus is usually not mixed with the stool. Other typical symptoms in hemorrhoids are:

• Anal itching
• Blood in the stool
• Constipation
• Soft anal mucosa may protrude out from the anus

continue reading What Causes Mucus in the Bowel Movement?