Stomach ulcers
Gastritis
Certain medications (iron supplements, bismuth subsalicylate like Pepto-Bismol)
Statistics: According to the National Institutes of Health, black stools caused by gastrointestinal bleeding account for 10–20% of hospital visits for GI complaints.
What to do: Seek immediate medical attention if black stool is unexplained.
5. Red Stool – Lower GI Bleeding or Diet
What it means: Bright red stool could mean bleeding in the colon, rectum, or anus. However, eating beets, red food coloring, or cranberries can also cause this color.
Possible causes:
Hemorrhoids
Anal fissures
Colorectal cancer
What to do: If not linked to food, see a doctor immediately. Early detection of colon cancer can increase survival rates to over 90%.
6. Pale, Clay-Colored Stool – Bile Duct Obstruction
What it means: Lack of bile reaching the intestines.
Possible causes:
Gallstones
Liver disease (hepatitis, cirrhosis)
Bile duct obstruction
What to do: This is serious. Seek medical advice promptly as it could indicate liver or gallbladder dysfunction.
7. Orange Stool – Diet or Medications
What it means: Often harmless and linked to diet or medication.
Possible causes:
Carotene-rich foods (carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin)
Medications like antacids containing aluminum hydroxide
What to do: If not persistent, no need to worry. If accompanied by pale stools and jaundice, consult a doctor.
8. Blue Stool – Rare but Possible
What it means: Usually linked to food coloring (candies, drinks).
Possible causes: Artificial dyes.
What to do: No health concerns unless persistent without dietary explanation.
9. Mucus in Stool – Inflammation Warning
What it means: A small amount of mucus is normal, but visible amounts can indicate inflammation.
Possible causes:
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Crohn’s disease
Ulcerative colitis
What to do: If persistent with pain or blood, consult a gastroenterologist.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stool Color
1. When should I worry about stool color?
Seek medical attention if: