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Wednesday, August 14, 2013

Causes of Pale, Light Stools and Fatigue for Weeks

Causes of Pale, Light Stools and Fatigue for Weeks

While fatigue is a general symptom that can result from many other conditions than sickness, pale or light-colored stools are comparatively rare, and may be a sign of serious problems in your digestive tract. If you have these symptoms for more than a few days, you should seek prompt medical attention.

Gilbert's Syndrome

    Gilbert's Syndrome is a genetic condition that affects 3 to 7 percent of Americans; men are more likely to have it than women. Fatigue is a common symptom of this disorder, which prevents the liver from processing a substance called bilirubin. Gilbert's Syndrome may also cause pale stools in some cases.

Hepatitis

    Acute hepatitis can produce fatigue and light stools (which sometimes have pus in them). Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver with a wide range of possible causes; the viral forms of the disease are usually transmitted by sharing needles, having sex, or other close personal contact with an infected person. Alcohol and certain medications may also cause liver inflammation.

    Hepatitis is a serious illness that requires prompt medical attention.

Bile Duct Issues

    Gallstones or a narrowing of the bile duct can cause light stools and fatigue. It is possible to suffer from a bile duct issue without additional symptoms or pain. See a doctor if fatigue and light stools persist, or if you experience any pain in your abdomen or surrounding areas.

Cancer

    In rare cases, light stools and fatigue can be signs of pancreatic or bile duct cancer. Early detection of these cancers can greatly improve your prognosis, so again, it's important to see a doctor if these symptoms persist for more than a few days.

Medications

    Over-the-counter medications like Kaopectate and Pepto-Bismol, which contain bismuth subsalicylate, may cause pale stools if taken in large doses for a prolonged period. If fatigue is also present (due to a stomach virus, for instance), this could create a false impression that the symptoms are related.

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