- Oily stools, or steatorrhoea, indicate improper fat digestion or absorption in the body
- Common causes include pancreatic issues, gallbladder disorders, coeliac disease, and Crohn's
- Symptoms may include bulky, foul-smelling stools, bloating, weight loss, and vitamin deficiencies
Have you ever noticed your stool looking greasy, floating unusually, or leaving an oily film in the toilet? While it may feel awkward to talk about, oily stools are not something to ignore. Medically, this condition is known as steatorrhoea, and it usually signals that your body is not properly digesting or absorbing fats. Oily stools often have distinct features such as bulky or foul-smelling stools, greasy appearance or visible oil droplets and stools that float and is difficult to flush, which leads to increased frequency of bowel movements. Also, it may also be accompanied by bloating, abdominal discomfort, or unintended weight loss. As per the study published in 2023, chronic heavy alcohol consumption can also lead to steatorrhea.
What are the common causes of oily stool
Fat digestion is a complex process. Your body needs bile from the liver and gallbladder, and digestive enzymes from the pancreas, to break down dietary fats properly. If any part of this system is disrupted, fat may pass through the digestive tract undigested. Here are some common causes:
1. Pancreatic Problems
The pancreas produces enzymes that help digest fat. Conditions such as chronic pancreatitis or pancreatic insufficiency can reduce enzyme production, leading to oily stool.
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2. Gallbladder Or Liver Disorders
Main role of bile is to emulsify fat for absorption. Gallstones, bile duct blockages or liver disease can interfere with bile flow, resulting in poor fat digestion.
3. Coeliac Disease
Coeliac disease damages the small intestine lining when gluten is consumed. This damage reduces nutrient absorption, including fat, causing greasy stools.
4. Chronic Intestinal Conditions
Conditions such as Crohn's disease or certain infections can affect the small intestine's ability to absorb nutrients.
5. Excessive Fat Intake
Occasionally, consuming very high-fat meals can temporarily cause oily stool, especially if your body struggles to handle large amounts of fat at once.
Other Symptoms To Watch For
Oily stool may occur alongside:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Vitamin deficiencies, particularly fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K
- Dry skin or easy bruising
If these symptoms are present, medical evaluation is essential.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Doctors may recommend:
- Stool analysis to measure fat content
- Blood tests to check liver and pancreatic function
- Imaging scans such as ultrasound or CT scan
- Tests for coeliac disease
Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment.
How To Treat Oily Stool
Treatment depends entirely on the cause. If any kind of pancreatic insufficiency is suspected, supplements of digestive enzymes may be recommended to help with digestion, whereas gallstones or bile duct issues may need treatment with medications or surgery to ensure bile drainage, whereas if coeliac disease is the underlying cause, a strict gluten-free diet will help the intestine heal and improve fat absorption, whereas medications for Crohn's disease will help manage the condition.
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Dietary Adjustments That May Help
While waiting for diagnosis or treatment:
- Avoid very fatty or fried foods
- Eat smaller, balanced meals
- Include easily digestible proteins
- Stay hydrated
However, do not drastically restrict fats without medical guidance, as fats are essential for overall health. Oily stool is usually a sign that your body is not absorbing fats properly. While occasional changes may be harmless, persistent greasy stools should never be ignored. Your digestive system is complex, and even small disruptions can affect nutrient absorption. If something seems unusual, it is always better to get it checked. Paying attention to these signs can help protect your digestive health and overall wellbeing.
Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
