Stool Routine Test

Description

Stool Routine Test

A stool routine test is done to diagnose conditions pertaining to problems of the stomach or intestines or any part of the gastrointestinal tract. This test analyses the fecal sample from the patient to determine the cause of stomach problems and anything that affects the normal functioning of the digestive tract. It also screens for blood on the stool, which could be a sign of colon cancer or hemorrhoids.

A sample of the stool is collected and analyzed for bacteria, fungi, infections, etc. The analysis of the stool helps in identifying any underlying infections, or nutrient absorption defects, or any symptom that might affect the digestive tract, pancreas, or liver.

What is stool routine test?

A stool routine test is a series of tests carried out to diagnose certain medical conditions that can interfere with the normal functioning of the digestive tract. A stool sample is collected in a collection container devoid of any water, urine, or tissue that can cause the inaccuracy in the results. The sample is analyzed within an hour of collection.

The sample is screened for unusual bacteria, fungi, larvae, or worms to determine the cause for gastrointestinal problems. 2-3 samples need to be collected and analyzed over 1-3 days. Results are usually got in 2-3 days.

Gastrointestinal problems are usually very detrimental to health. They make the person suffering severely uncomfortable and irritable. Symptoms usually begin with stomach cramps, progressing to constipation or diarrhea, which lasts for more than a few days, in which case there is severe dehydration. Other indications may be small amounts of blood in the feaces.

The presence of blood may be because of rectal tissue tear owing to strain in passing hard stools, infection, hemorrhoids, or colon cancer. Nausea and vomiting may also present as symptoms. Ulcers, inflammation of the intestines may also lead to blood in the stool that is not visible to the naked eye. Hence, a series of stool tests are ordered by the doctor when any of these symptoms present themselves.

Precautions need to be taken to ensure accurate results. A stool sample should be collected using a special tissue paper and a container to make sure there is no contamination from water or urine. 2 weeks prior to the test, medications should be stopped. Inform your doctor of the prescription and over-the-counter medications you take.

Red meat, vegetables like broccoli, turnips, and carrots, painkillers, and supplements should be avoided for about 3 days before the test. Stool samples should not be collected during the menstrual period or when there is active bleeding in the body. Stool routine test is not painful.

Stool routine test is sometimes performed as a part of a GI pathogens panel that screens for pathogenic bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Other tests include ova and parasite examination and, sometimes, an antigen test is carried out to identify the micro-organism that is present.

Stool routine test conditions

Note:

• Overnight fasting is NOT required
• Doctor’s prescription may be needed
• The test result may vary depending on previous health history, etc.
• Home visit collection facility is NOT available for stool routine testing

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