What diseases can be detected through stool examination during a physical check-up?

Dec 19, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
In general, stool tests can assess the health of the digestive system and may detect conditions such as intestinal dysbiosis, gastrointestinal inflammation, parasitic infections, gastrointestinal bleeding, and intestinal tumors. If discomfort symptoms occur, timely medical attention is recommended. Maintaining a balanced diet, reducing alcohol consumption, and avoiding excessive fatigue in daily life can help prevent the occurrence of intestinal diseases.

Routine stool tests can assess the health of the digestive system and may detect conditions such as intestinal dysbiosis, intestinal inflammation, intestinal parasitic infections, gastrointestinal bleeding, and intestinal tumors. If discomfort symptoms occur, timely medical consultation is recommended. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Intestinal Dysbiosis

Intestinal dysbiosis refers to the disruption of the balance between beneficial and harmful bacteria in the gut. Stool tests can detect changes in the bacterial composition. A reduction in probiotics and an increase in harmful bacteria may lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, and bloating.

2. Intestinal Inflammation

Intestinal inflammation, such as enteritis and ulcerative colitis, often presents with symptoms like congestion and edema of the intestinal wall. Stool tests might reveal an increased white blood cell count and elevated lactoferrin levels.

3. Intestinal Parasitic Infection

Intestinal parasitic infection is one of the common digestive tract diseases. Patients may experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and malnutrition. Microscopic examination of stool samples may reveal parasite eggs, larvae, or adult worm fragments, such as roundworms, hookworms, and amoebas.

4. Gastrointestinal Bleeding

During gastrointestinal bleeding, blood is excreted with feces, resulting in hematochezia or melena. Stool tests can detect elevated levels of red blood cells and hemoglobin, indicating the presence of a bleeding site within the intestine.

5. Intestinal Tumors

Some intestinal tumors may cause damage to the intestinal mucosa. Stool tests can detect abnormal components such as bleeding from the intestinal mucosa or increased mucus secretion, providing clues for diagnosis.

Maintaining a balanced diet, reducing alcohol consumption, and avoiding excessive fatigue in daily life can help prevent the occurrence of intestinal diseases.

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