Why Does Stool Float Or Sink

Your stool can reveal a lot about your health, including the health of your digestive system. Normal, healthy stool is typically soft, brown, and formed. However, sometimes your stool may appear to float or sink in the toilet. This can be a sign of an underlying health condition, although it is not always a cause for concern.

Why does stool float?

Stool can float for a number of reasons, including:

Gas: Gas can become trapped in stool, causing it to become buoyant and float. This is often the case with loose or diarrheal stools.
High fat content: A high-fat diet can also cause stool to float. Fat is not easily digested, and when it passes through the digestive tract, it can bind to stool and make it more buoyant.
Malabsorption: Malabsorption is a condition in which the body is unable to properly absorb nutrients from food. This can lead to fatty stools that float. Conditions that can cause malabsorption include celiac disease, Crohn's disease, and pancreatitis.

Why does stool sink?

Stool can sink for a number of reasons, including:

Low fiber content: A low-fiber diet can cause stool to be hard and dry, which can make it sink.
Constipation: Constipation can also cause stool to be hard and dry, which can make it sink.
Iron deficiency: Iron deficiency can cause stool to be dark and tarry, which can make it sink.

When to see a doctor

In most cases, stool that floats or sinks is not a cause for concern. However, if you are experiencing other symptoms, such as diarrhea, constipation, or abdominal pain, you should see a doctor. These symptoms could be a sign of an underlying health condition that needs to be treated.

Your doctor can perform a physical exam and ask you about your symptoms to determine if you have an underlying health condition. They may also order tests, such as a stool sample or blood test, to confirm a diagnosis.

Treatment

The treatment for stool that floats or sinks depends on the underlying cause. If your stool is floating due to gas, your doctor may recommend eating a low-fat diet or taking over-the-counter gas medication. If your stool is sinking due to constipation, your doctor may recommend eating a high-fiber diet or taking a laxative.

If your stool is floating or sinking due to an underlying health condition, your doctor will treat the underlying condition. For example, if you have celiac disease, your doctor will recommend a gluten-free diet. If you have Crohn's disease, your doctor may prescribe medication to reduce inflammation in your digestive tract.