What's Causing Your Strange Bowel Movements? Everyday Health Menu NewslettersSearch Digestive Health What' s Causing Your Strange Bowel Movements By Dr. Mark Babyatsky Reviewed: February 18, 2010 Fact-Checked Q1. I was watching a program about pancreatic cancer that stated that stools that float are not absorbing fat, which is a sign of a pancreatic problem. Is frequent passing of stools that float something that should be checked out? What else can cause floating stools? — Arlene, FloridaSince fat is lighter than water, floating stools are most commonly an indication of a high fat content in the stool. Floating stools can occur normally depending on the fat content of the diet we ingest; each of us has only a certain amount of capacity to digest fats. However, any condition that impairs fat absorption may lead to more floating stools due to high fat content. These conditions include Q2. What are the possible reasons for passing mucus in your bowel movements? — Arthur, Ohio Q3. I noticed a little bit of blood in my stool; should I worry now or wait and see if it continues? I have a history of hemorrhoids. — Crystal, TennesseeWhile NEWSLETTERS Sign up for our Digestive Health Newsletter SubscribeBy subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. The Latest in Digestive Health Gut Check: Can Cookie Dough Really Harm Your Gut? It’s not just the raw eggs that can make you sick.By Kaitlin SullivanOctober 4, 2022 Gut Healthy Foods Worth Trying — or Not Are you plagued with gut problems and looking for a solution? The answer might be in your diet. Read on for expert advice on which foods might be worth...By Jane OkojiAugust 23, 2022 Are Bidets Good for Your Bum—and the Planet? Here’s all you need to know about the clean tush movement.By Jordan M. DavidsonAugust 22, 2022 Gut Check: Is Coffee Good for Your Gut Microbiome? Drinking coffee comes with a number of health benefits, and now some studies suggest that may be because it supports a healthy gut.By Ashley WelchAugust 17, 2022 Mom, My Tummy Hurts: Common Digestive Issues in Kids Stomachaches in kids can come and go, but frequent tummy troubles may need medical attention.By Stacy KishJuly 22, 2022 The Consumer’s Guide to Biologics for Eosinophilic EsophagitisBy Maria MastersJuly 21, 2022 Can You Get Sick From a Swimming Pool or Lake? Find out about the germs that lurk beneath the surface at swimming holes — and what you can do to protect yourself and your family.By Sandra GordonJuly 19, 2022 What to Know About Elimination Diets for Eosinophilic Esophagitis An elimination diet can be challenging, time-consuming, and expensive. In the end, though, it may reveal exactly what’s triggering your symptoms.By Johanna NeesonJuly 18, 2022 Dealing With Dysphagia When You Have Eosinophilic Esophagitis Difficulty swallowing is a common symptom of eosinophilic esophagitis, but there are some simple ways to mitigate this side effect and ease discomfort...By Jennifer Kelly GeddesJuly 18, 2022 4 Natural Remedies for Reflux Due to Eosinophilic Esophagitis When conventional medicine isn’t enough, the addition of a complementary treatment or two may be the key to relief from heartburn caused by EoE.By Jennifer Kelly GeddesJuly 18, 2022 MORE IN The Long Road to My EPI Diagnosis Treatment for Hemorrhoids 6 Ways to Relieve Constipation From Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency Wellness inspired Wellness enabled FacebookTwitterInstagramPinterestYoutubeTikTok About Us Careers Editorial Policy Newsletters Meet Our Health Expert Network Privacy Policy Health News Accessibility Statement Terms of Use Contact Us Feedback Do Not Sell My Personal Information Popular Topics AdChoices NEWSLETTERS Get the best in health and wellness SubscribeBy subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. A PROPERTY OF EHGLogo More From Everyday Health: Castle Connolly Top Doctors DailyOM Diabetes Daily Everyday Health Care Migraine Again 1996-2022 Everyday Health, Inc. Everyday Health is among the federally registered trademarks of Everyday Health, Inc. and may not be used by third parties without explicit permission. Badges Badges Badges