mucous in stool

[greenbean queen]

I am a 37 year old female who has had melanoma in 1998.  All has been well until about 3 weeks ago.  I have started having mucous in my stool with some light blood also.  I seem to only go to the bathroom about every other day.  When I do have to go, I have stomach pain and need to go right then.  I have an appointment with a stomach dr, but I am driving myself crazy worring! Has anyone got any words of encouragement or has anyone ever had this problem before.  No matter what I will still keep my appt.  I would just like to hear from someone else that may have gone thru this also.
Thanks

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Mucous in the stool can be caused by infection, inflammatory bowel disease, malabsorption or chronic pancreatitis, amongst other reasons.  

I would consider a colonoscopy at this point, as well as stool tests to look for malabsorption.  Blood tests can be done for celiac disease or pancreatitis.

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

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

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, M.D.
kevinmd_

[Cjbell]

I have been really constipated lately ad I thought my bowels were finally getting back to normal. When I got the urge to go it was fairly effortless however there was a long intertwined strand of mucous about 3-4 inches long. I have experienced mucous in much smaller amounts but never thought anything of it. Should I be concerned?