Soft stool for last 3 months

Dear Dr.,
I am a healthy individual in that I work out daily and I eat very healthy i.e lots of veggies, berries, whole grains and meat and dairy.  I have been having soft stool for the last 3 months or so.  
I only have one bowl movement a day in the morning.  This is at the same time I have always had my bowl movement.  My stool has been soft and very sticky and maybe a little pale although not to off color if at all most of the time.  It is never diarrhea,  it is always like a patty. It is easy to pass and I don't have any other abdominal symptoms.  The only abnormal condition I have had has been 2 small circular hairless areas on my face in the last 10 days and the dermatologist didn't find any fungi on them although she thought there maybe some hidden hyphae. Also, I did take a 3 day antibiotic about 4 months ago.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Testing the stool for infection should be considered, as this can lead to soft stools.  I would also consider a lower endoscopy, such as a colonoscopy, which can exclude colitis or other forms of inflammation.

If the stools are pale, that could be indicative of a biliary obstruction, which can be evaluated first with an ultrasound, and then with an MRCP or ERCP.  

These options can be discussed with your personal physician or gastroenterologist.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin Pho, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com
www.twitter.com/kevinmd