What it means: Yellow stool can be a warning sign.
Why it happens: It often indicates excess fat in stool, meaning your body may not be absorbing nutrients properly. This could be linked to conditions involving the pancreas, liver, or gallbladder.
When to worry: If yellow stool is frequent, greasy, or foul-smelling, it’s time to see a doctor.
🚨 Black: Bleeding or Medication
What it means: Black stool is often alarming.
Why it happens: Sometimes caused by iron supplements or certain medications. But it can also indicate bleeding higher up in the digestive tract (stomach or esophagus).
When to worry: If it persists and can’t be explained by medication, seek medical attention immediately.
🚑 Red: Possible Blood in Stool
What it means: Bright red stool can mean bleeding in the lower digestive tract (colon, rectum, or anus).
Why it happens: Sometimes it’s harmless—caused by foods like beets, tomatoes, or red dye. But other times, it’s linked to hemorrhoids, fissures, or more serious conditions like polyps or colon cancer.
When to worry: If you can’t explain it by diet, always consult a healthcare professional.