What is the purpose of stool examination during a physical checkup?

Stool examination during a physical check-up can typically detect whether gastrointestinal diseases are present, such as pathogenic bacterial infections, parasitic infections, or gastrointestinal bleeding. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Pathogenic bacterial infection

By culturing and examining the patient's stool sample, it is possible to determine whether there is a pathogenic bacterial infection in the intestinal tract, such as Salmonella typhi or Escherichia coli. If the patient has developed clinical symptoms such as fever or diarrhea, stool tests can also detect the presence of large numbers of white blood cells. Patients should visit a qualified hospital and, under medical guidance, use medications such as ganciclovir for injection or oseltamivir phosphate capsules for treatment.

2. Parasitic infection

In most cases, stool may directly contain parasite eggs or adult parasites. Through stool testing, intestinal parasites can be identified. If parasites are found, an intestinal parasitic infection can be diagnosed. Patients should follow medical advice and take medications such as metronidazole tablets or tinidazole tablets for treatment.

3. Gastrointestinal bleeding

Many gastrointestinal diseases may cause bleeding in the digestive tract, such as duodenal ulcers or intestinal polyps. In such cases, stool testing can reveal whether red blood cells are present in the feces. If detected, this indicates gastrointestinal bleeding. Under a doctor’s guidance, patients may undergo catheter-based hemostasis procedures for treatment.

In addition to the above causes, stool examination may also help identify conditions such as cholecystitis, colitis, peptic ulcer disease, or gastrointestinal tumors. It is recommended that patients go to a reputable hospital and, under a doctor’s guidance, undergo appropriate examinations to ensure data reliability and avoid delaying further treatment.