Fatty stool - what is it?
Fatty stool or pancreatic stool is when the fat content in the stool is abnormally high. This increase is usually caused by a fat digestion disorder (malassimilation), which in turn is associated with a disease. A sign of fatty stools and a fat digestion disorder is a slimy, sticky, often greasy, clay to ochre-colored stool that smells unpleasant. The stool also leaves a greasy film in the toilet water. However, fatty stools should not be confused with soft stools, which are not always a cause for concern.
Fatty stool symptoms
Fatty stools are accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, flatulence or diarrhea. There are two types of pancreatic stool :
1st variant: In maldigestion, digestion is disturbed. Cause: Important enzymes (lipases) are missing to metabolize the fat.
2nd variant: In malabsorption there is no digestive disorder. Cause: The body cannot absorb fat at all or only insufficiently.
Fatty stools - these diseases can be the cause
Gallstones: Gallstones can not only cause painful colic, they can also block laxative ducts. As a result, bile no longer flows into the digestive tract in sufficient quantities to metabolize food. Treatment: In this case, the gallstones are usually removed.
Coeliac disease (gluten intolerance): Gluten triggers inflammation in the intestines of people who suffer from gluten intolerance. As a result, food such as fat cannot be metabolized. Treatment: As with all food intolerances, the only thing that helps is to avoid the corresponding foods.
Crohn's disease: The situation is similar with chronic intestinal inflammation such as Crohn's disease. In this disease, which is very stressful for those affected, digestion is disturbed by permanent inflammation. The intestinal disease manifests itself in episodes, which are also painful. Treatment: Crohn's disease can be alleviated with appropriate medication, but there is currently no cure!
Pancreatic cancer (pancreatic carcinoma): A fatty stool can also be an indication of pancreatic cancer, as this can also lead to digestive disorders. Treatment: Tumors are usually removed surgically, but tumors can also be treated with enzyme replacement therapy.
Date: 18.02.2021
Author: Tanja Seiffert