Malabsorption & Sticky Stool Question...

[Pum2Help]

For about 2 months my stool has changed, from normal to 'sticky' (consistency of sticky pudding). Color varies from light brown to quit dark depending on the day. I also have a good amount of gastro rumbling, and contracting, but not really any pain. I've dropped a few pounds (about 4 or 5). Feel a bit malnourished.

My dr suspects malabsorption and is running tests to find cause. So far tests are:

* FIT test for blood - neg.
* Celiac test - neg.
* Lactose test - neg.
* Parasites - neg.

I did take antibiotics a few months ago, so he's now doing a test to check if my bacteria are out-of-whack.

Has anyone experienced similar symptoms with the sticky poop? If so, how did it get solved?
PS I'm 44 yr old male. Only other health issue I had was about 3 or 4 months ago I had reactive arthritis in both hands from a bad strep infection (which is why the dr gave me antibiotics).

[Pum2Help]

Thanks very much for the reply. I'll let you know what happens - going to the doctor on Wed, to review a Fecal Fat sample (the one time qualitative test, not the 72 hr quantitative test).

[vinbaker]

what did you have?

[Pum2Help]

I saw a gastroenterology doctor, and had a colonoscopy. No abnormalities found, so diagnosis was IBS (thankfully). To be honest, the issue persists to this day, but has not changed / gotten worse.  But to any who have issues, definitely want to see a doctor to have a professional look at things.

[cnoevl21]

if you're not digesting fat, your stool would be a yellowish color.
It could be a yeast overgrowth, or IBS. Hopefully the latest test you took will shed some light on the subject.

[Pum2Help]

I've since had a FECAL FAT Test, and will get the results next week.

Also, I noticed this week, that I have undigested fat in the stool. I took a photo.

[Pum2Help]

Also to add - I don't have any pain when I go to the washroom.