Types, Characteristics, and Disorders of Stool/Feces

Characteristics

• Color

• Consistency

• Shape

• Amount

• Odor

• Constituents

CONSTIPATION

A condition where bowel movements are infrequent or difficult to pass, often with hard, dry stool.

FECAL IMPACTION

A severe form of constipation where a large, hard mass of stool gets stuck in the rectum and can’t be passed naturally.

DIARRHEA

Frequent, loose, or watery bowel movements, often caused by infection, food intolerance, or digestive disorders.

BOWEL INCONTINENCE

The inability to control bowel movements, leading to accidental leakage of stool.

FLATULENCE

The buildup and release of gas from the digestive system through the rectum, commonly known as passing gas or farting.

TYPE 1

Separate, hard lumps (severe constipation)

TYPE 2

Lumpy and sausage-like (mild constipation)

TYPE 3

Sausage shape with cracks in the surface (normal)

TYPE 4

Smooth, soft sausage or snake (normal)

TYPE 5

Soft blobs with clear-cut edges (lacking fiber)

TYPE 6

Mushy consistency with ragged edges (mild diarrhea)

TYPE 7

Liquid consistency with no solid pieces (severe diarrhea)