Stool Tests

A stool test looks for the cause of digestive problems that will not go away: parasites, intestinal infections or blood you cannot see. The sample is dropped off at the clinic and results are explained in Spanish.

When is it worth doing?

Diarrhea lasting more than a few days, pain or bloating after meals, constant gas and cramping, stools with mucus or blood, or unexplained weight loss. Also when several people in the household have the same thing at the same time.

How is the sample collected?

We give you the container and the instructions. The sample must not mix with urine or toilet water, and it should be dropped off as soon as possible. When the test is looking for parasites, three samples from different days are sometimes requested, because they do not always show up in the first one.

What does it look for?

Parasites and their eggs, bacteria that cause intestinal infection, excess fat that suggests poor absorption, and occult blood, which is the test used to screen for colon problems starting at age 45.

What happens after the result?

If there are parasites or an infection, treatment is prescribed at the clinic along with advice on keeping it from coming back at home. If the test is normal but symptoms persist, the logical next step is blood work or a referral for a colon study.

Should I stop any medication first?

Some antacids, antibiotics and antidiarrheals alter the result. Do not stop them on your own: tell us what you take and we will say whether to wait a few days or run the test anyway.

Why come to La Michoacana?

We are on Spencer Hwy, at 6500 Ste 180, just off Highway 225 and minutes from Deer Park, South Houston and La Porte. We open seven days a week: Monday to Saturday from 9 AM to 9 PM and Sunday from 9 AM to 7 PM, so you can come after work or on the weekend without taking time off. No appointment and no insurance needed. Our whole team speaks Spanish, parking is free and the entrance is wheelchair accessible.

How payment works

You pay per visit, with no insurance involved. We take cash, debit cards, credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover) and phone payments. We do not take checks. Ask about the price of your service when you arrive or over the phone: we tell you before we start, so you know what you are paying.

Where our patients come from

Most live in Pasadena, in ZIP codes 77505, 77504, 77506 and 77503. We also see families from Deer Park, South Houston, La Porte, Pearland and the rest of the Houston area. If you work at the industrial plants along Highway 225 or the Ship Channel, we are on your way home.