Loose Stool With Strong Odor and Abdominal Pain – Could It Be Colitis?

If you're experiencing sticky stool with a strong odor along with abdominal pain, these could be signs of a digestive issue. The nature of the symptoms and how long they've been present play a key role in determining the cause.

Acute Symptoms May Indicate Infection
If these symptoms appeared suddenly within 1-3 days, it might suggest an acute intestinal infection or infectious diarrhea. In such cases, it's advisable to undergo tests like stool routine and blood tests to identify any bacterial or viral causes.

Chronic Symptoms Could Point to Chronic Colitis
On the other hand, if the condition has persisted for more than two months, chronic colitis becomes a likely possibility. Chronic colitis is a non-specific inflammatory condition affecting the colon, sigmoid colon, and rectum. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating, gurgling sounds in the abdomen, and mucus in the stool.

Inflammation Levels Vary in Chronic Colitis
This condition involves inflammation ranging from mild to severe in the mucosal and submucosal layers of the colon. Notably, chronic colitis doesn't always result in diarrhea—some individuals may experience constipation or difficulty passing stool.

Diagnostic Procedures Are Essential
To accurately diagnose chronic colitis, a colonoscopy is necessary. This procedure not only confirms the presence of inflammation but also helps rule out serious conditions like colon cancer or polyps.

In summary, while sticky, foul-smelling stools and abdominal discomfort can indicate colitis, the duration of symptoms is crucial in determining whether the cause is acute or chronic. Consulting a healthcare professional for proper evaluation is highly recommended.