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Alternative Names Return to top
Foul-smelling stoolsDefinition Return to top
Foul-smelling stools are usually associated with what you eat, but may be a sign of a medical condition.
Considerations Return to top
Stools normally have an unpleasant odor, but one that is recognized as fairly common. Stools that have an extremely bad, out-of-the-ordinary odor may be associated with certain medical conditions. Foul-smelling stools also have normal causes, most notably diet.
Foul-smelling stools may occur in conjunction with floating stools.
Causes Return to top
Home Care Return to top
Home care depends on the specific diagnosis. Follow your health care provider's instructions closely, and adhere strictly to prescribed diets. If you have diarrhea, make sure to increase your water intake to avoid dehydration.
When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top
If you have associated symptoms -- abdominal pain, fever, chills, cramping, weight loss, stools that float or are difficult to flush, blood in the stool, black or pale stools, mucus in the stool, or diet-related changes in your stool -- call your health care provider.
What to Expect at Your Office Visit Return to top
Your health care provider will ask you questions about your medical history and perform a physical examination.
Medical history questions may include:
A stool sample will be obtained for laboratory analysis. Other studies may be needed.
Update Date: 11/13/2007 Updated by: Christian Stone, M.D., Division of Gastroenterology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 25 September 2008 |