Sometimes there is constipation or a form of diarrhea in which frequent small amounts of feces with a thin, tape-like appearance are passed. The feces may be covered with mucus. Diarrhea is often the principal symptom, usually occurring first thing in the morning or immediately after a meal. The rest of the day may be free from pain or diarrhea. The person may feel tired and mildly depressed.
Weight loss is unusual.
A physician makes a diagnosis after excluding other possibilities, such as gastroenteritis, ulcerative colitis, amebic dysentery, or other intestinal disorders that cause abdominal pain and diarrhea. If necessary, the physician may arrange for fecal analysis and a barium enema followed by fluoroscopic or X-ray examination to make sure there is no underlying disease of the intestine. Once the physician has made the diagnosis, he or she can reassure the patient that there is no serious disorder.