Stool Tests: Importance, Symptoms, Types and Results

What is a Stool Test and Its Importance?

A stool test is a medical diagnostic test used to examine a person's stool sample for evidence of a disease or condition. A stool test can help identify gastrointestinal anomalies such as colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, hemorrhoids, anal fissures, infections, parasites, and the presence of blood.

The Importance of a Symptom-Specific Stool Test

There are many different types of stool tests available, and it is vital to choose the right one specific to your needs. A symptom-specific stool test can be beneficial in diagnosing a variety of gastrointestinal disorders. This type of test can help identify abnormal bacteria, yeast, or parasites in the digestive tract. It can also help to determine the cause of gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation. 

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor about whether a symptom-specific stool test is right for you.

What Are The Different Types of Stool Tests?

Several different stool test types help diagnose various gastrointestinal disorders. Some of the most common tests include the following:

• Fecal occult blood test (FOBT): It helps looks for the presence of hidden blood in the stool, which can be a sign of colorectal cancer. The FOBT cannot identify the source of blood, in contrast to the FIT. This test necessitates the collection of three different stool samples.
• The Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): It helps determines whether any blood discovered in the feces has a connection to the lower intestines. One stool sample is all that is needed.
• Stool DNA Testing: In this test, the stool DNA is examined to find the presence of colorectal cancer. Only one sample of stool is required.
• Fecal Fat Test: This test measures the amount of fat in the stool, which can be a sign of malabsorption disorders such as celiac disease (e.g., autoimmune disorder — gluten intolerance).
• Stool Culture Test: This test helps diagnose bacterial infections of the gastrointestinal tract.
• Ova and Parasite Exam: This examination looks for parasitic infections such as giardiasis.
• Clostridium Difficile Toxin Test: It looks for the presence of toxins produced by the bacteria.

What Are Some Common Symptoms of Stool Problems?

Many stool problems can occur, each with its own set of symptoms. Some common symptoms of stool problems include changes in stool consistency, frequency, presence of blood in stool, and severe abdominal pain. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you must see a doctor to diagnose and treat the cause correctly.

The Importance of a Normal Stool Test 

Your stool, or feces, is made up of wastes from consumed foods, water, and digestive secretions. It usually passes through your body once or twice a day. However, changes in your diet, medications, or lifestyle can cause your stool to become abnormal.

An abnormal stool can be watery, hard, or sticky. It can also be greasy, foul-smelling, or contain floating matter. If you experience any of these changes, it's essential to see your doctor so they can perform a stool test.

A stool test is an essential tool that can help your doctor diagnose various conditions, including certain types of cancer. So if you have any changes in your stool and are in unusual discomfort, don't delay to consult a specialist.

How to Select a Stool Testing Lab?

There are several considerations to take into account when selecting a stool testing lab, including the type of tests offered, the accreditation of the lab, and the lab's reputation.

• Type of tests offered: The assortment of tests provided by a lab will determine what conditions can be diagnosed using the stool test sample. Some labs only offer basic tests, while others provide comprehensive testing.
• Accreditation & reputation: Make sure that the lab you select is accredited, meets specific quality standards, and is reputable.
• Reputation: When choosing a stool testing lab, consider the lab's reputation. You can ask if anyone has used the lab before and if they were satisfied with the results or look for its online reviews.

How to Prepare For a Stool Test?

The test is generally quick and easy to perform and can be done in a doctor's clinic or lab. Follow the instructions given to you by your doctor or the lab. The doctor may ask you not to eat or drink a few hours before providing a sample. Follow the instructions to collect the sample in the sterilized container supplied by the clinic/laboratory.

Stool Test Diagnosis

Stool tests detect various conditions, including infections, allergies, and inflammatory bowel disease. Diagnosis can be difficult, especially when symptoms are vague. A stool test may not be the first diagnostic tool used, but that doesn't mean ignoring its significance in medical reality.

Stool tests can play a critical role in diagnosing digestive disorders. This article explains why stool tests are important and how the different types help diagnose digestive problems.

What Can The Results of a Stool Test Reveal About Your Health?

Numerous factors could impact the results of your lab test results.

If the results are typical, no microorganisms that often cause illness were discovered in the stool culture, indicating that you are not infected.

Positive results indicate the presence of bacteria, parasites, or other pathogens in your stool culture, which may be the root of your stomach difficulties or other serious health concerns.

When a test yields a false-negative result, it means that some infectious germs were overlooked. Your doctor may prescribe more tests to identify the origin of your stomach issues if you continue to exhibit infection-related symptoms.

Conclusion

It’s important to note that a stool test is only one part of a complete diagnosis or answer to chronic health issues. The doctor could advise other tests based on their observation or your health condition. The stool test can be crucial in diagnosing, but most overlook or forgo its relevance.

Consult your physician in case of unusually prolonged discomfort concerning digestive issues.