What causes mucus in bowel movements?

1 Answer
Jul 1, 2018

Yellow or clear mucus is present in small amounts in a normal bowel movement.

Explanation:

An intestinal mucus layer protects the body from food residues and potential pathogens in the intestines. The mucus membrane of the large intestine helps stool to pass. If an inflammatory process breaks down this mucosal layer, excess mucus may get excreted from the stools.

But when the stool has visible mucus it can be a sign of bacterial infection, anal fissures or a bowel obstruction. Dehydration and constipation may also cause mucus from the colon to leave the body.