Poop with diverticulitis can show several distinctive changes in color, shape, consistency, and odor due to inflammation and possible complications in the colon:
- Color: Stools may contain blood, appearing as bright red streaks, maroon, or black and tarry if bleeding occurs from inflamed or ulcerated intestinal walls
- Shape: The stool often becomes thin, narrow, or pellet-shaped because inflammation and swelling can narrow the colon’s lumen, restricting stool passage
- Texture and Consistency: Diverticulitis can cause diarrhea, resulting in loose, watery, or fluffy stools, sometimes with mucus, or constipation, leading to hard, small, pebble-like stools. Both extremes may occur during flare-ups
- Odor: The stool’s smell may become more foul than usual, especially if infection or fistulas develop
- Frequency and Effort: Bowel movements may be less frequent with constipation or more frequent with diarrhea. Passing stool can become painful or require straining due to inflammation or obstruction
- Mucus: Increased mucus may be present in the stool, giving it a shiny or greasy appearance
If blood is present in the stool or if symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, fever, or nausea occur, immediate medical attention is necessary as these may indicate complications
. In summary, diverticulitis poop may look abnormal with thin or pellet-like shapes, variable consistency (hard or loose), presence of blood or mucus, and a stronger odor compared to normal stool
