Rectal discharge refers to any substance that exits the rectum other than typical stool. This can include various fluids or materials noticed in underwear, on toilet paper, or mixed with bowel movements. While the presence of rectal discharge often indicates an underlying condition, a small amount of certain types of discharge can be a normal bodily function.
Typical Rectal Discharge
The body naturally produces mucus, a thick, jelly-like substance, to protect and lubricate the delicate tissues of the colon and rectum. This mucus aids in the smooth passage of stool and forms a protective barrier. Under normal circumstances, this rectal mucus is usually clear or whitish and present in very small, unnoticeable amounts, often mixed within the stool.
Occasionally, a slightly increased amount of clear or whitish mucus might be observed, particularly with certain bowel movements. This can be a physiological response and does not always signify a health concern. However, distinguish this normal, small volume of mucus from larger, more frequent, or discolored discharges, which may warrant further investigation.
Variations in Appearance and What They May Indicate
Rectal discharge varies significantly in appearance. Color, consistency, and volume are important characteristics to observe, as they offer insights into potential underlying issues like irritation, infection, or inflammation.
Bright red blood often indicates hemorrhoids or anal fissures. Darker red or maroon blood might suggest bleeding from higher in the digestive tract, though it can also be rectal. Black and tarry discharge, known as melena, signifies older, digested blood, usually from the upper gastrointestinal tract.
Yellow or green discharge often suggests pus, common with infections like anal abscesses or fistulas. White or cloudy discharge, especially if excessive, may indicate rectal inflammation, such as proctitis, or be related to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Brown or fecal discharge, essentially liquid stool leakage, can result from issues affecting bowel control or loose stools.
Watery discharge can be a symptom of gastrointestinal infections, leading to loose stools. Thick, excessive mucus may be seen with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, or with irritable bowel syndrome. Foamy or frothy discharge can occur with increased fat or mucus in the stool, potentially indicating malabsorption issues or certain infections. Chunky discharge might suggest undigested food particles or solidified pus or mucus, often seen in specific infections or inflammatory states.
Small, intermittent amounts of discharge are less concerning than large, continuous, or increasing volumes. Significant or persistent discharge can point to active disease processes, such as severe inflammation, ongoing infection, or conditions affecting the rectum’s ability to retain contents. Rectal polyps or cancers can produce substantial mucus discharge.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
Consult a healthcare professional if you notice any new, persistent, or worsening rectal discharge. This includes any discharge that is increasing in volume or frequency.
Seek medical attention if the discharge is accompanied by other symptoms. These include rectal or abdominal pain, fever, or unexplained weight loss. Changes in bowel habits, such as persistent diarrhea or constipation, or a constant urge to have a bowel movement, also warrant evaluation. The presence of blood, whether bright red or dark and tarry, or an unusual and foul odor, are reasons to seek professional medical advice. A doctor can accurately diagnose the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.