What is yellow on toilet paper after a bowel movement my feces are still medium brown?
Yellowish toilet paper after a bowel movement can have several explanations:
1. Diet: Certain foods, such as carrots, squash, turmeric, and some medications (like Rifampin) can cause stool to appear yellow or orange. If you have recently consumed these foods or medications, this may be the cause.
2. Bile: Bile is a fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. It helps digest fats and gives stool its characteristic brown color. If there is an excess of bile in the stool, it can appear yellow or orange. This can occur due to conditions such as malabsorption, liver disease, or certain medications (like antibiotics) that affect bile production.
3. Infection or Parasites: Some intestinal infections or parasitic infestations (such as giardiasis) can cause yellow stool. If you experience additional symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, or fever, it's important to consult a doctor for further evaluation.
4. Medications: Certain medications, such as bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) or iron supplements, can cause stool to appear black or dark green. If you are taking any new medications, check the side effects to see if they may affect stool color.
5. Pancreatic Issues: In rare cases, yellow stool may be a sign of pancreatic insufficiency, where the pancreas does not produce enough enzymes to digest fats. This can lead to malabsorption and fatty, yellow stools.
If you are concerned about the yellow color on toilet paper after a bowel movement, it is recommended to monitor your symptoms and if they persist or you have other concerning symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.