Expert answer:
Mucus stools in infants and children may not represent a serious illness. In infants, when dentition occurs due to swallowing of saliva, a potential intestinal irritant, mucus can be evacuated. Others causes mucus evacuation are:
- intestinal infections, caused by viruses, bacteria or protozoa, which are usually associated with an increase in the number of bowel movements and abdominal pain. These diseases, if caused by bacteria or protozoa, often require treatment with specific medications;
- inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, which are usually associated with bowel movements, increased evacuations, and abdominal pain. These diseases require specific treatment;
- irritable bowel syndrome which is usually associated with abdominal pain and alternation between diarrhea and constipation.
For a better assessment of bowel habit and to determine if treatment will be needed, you should seek a pediatrician.
