Seeing blood in a stool can be alarming and lead to concerns about something serious. While it’s important to take blood in a stool seriously, understanding the causes and knowing when to seek medical advice can help with any unnecessary worry. This article provides an overview of the different potential causes for rectal bleeding, the implications of blood color and type, and when to contact a medical professional.
Understanding Blood in Stool
There are different kinds of bleeding or “blood” in a stool, and the type of bleeding can reveal where it came from. The color, shape, and any other symptoms are very important clues that reveal what may be going on.
Types of Blood in Stool
- Bright Red Blood– This almost always indicates that “bleeding” is occurring at the lower end of the GI tract. This bleeding can happen in the rectum or anus. Common causes of bright red blood in stool occur due to hemorrhoids and anal fissures.
- Dark Red or Black Blood– This may indicate the “bleeding” is coming from higher locations, often the stomach or small intestine, meaning the “blood” could have potentially been digested, and should be taken as serious, and is often observed in stool that’s black.
Common Causes of Rectal Bleeding
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are engorged veins in the rectum. They are one of the most common causes of bright red blood on the toilet paper when wiping at the end of your bowel movement. Hemorrhoids can be either internal or external and they can cause discomfort, itching, or pain during bowel movements. If you notice blood on your toilet paper when wiping and it is bright red and not copious, they may likely be due to hemorrhoids.
Anal Fissures
An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus. Anal fissures are most commonly seen when passing hard stools and can cause similar bleeding as hemorrhoids, typically bright red. In addition to bleeding, anal fissures almost always cause sharp pain during a bowel movement and sometimes afterwards as well. Treatment usually involves making adjustments in your life, increasing your fiber intake and using topical medications to heal the injury.
Gastrointestinal Infections
Some particular infections can lead to blood in the stools and/or rectal bleeding, with diarrhea commonly occurring during these episodes. Bacterial infections, like E. coli and Salmonella can cause irritation to the lining of the intestines leading to blood in your stool. If you suspect you may have an infection, you should consult with your physician.
Colon Polyps and Colon Cancer Symptoms
Colon polyps are growths on the lining of the colon and can bleed. Not all polyps are cancerous, but still can change and become colon cancer. Blood in your stool, especially when combined with other concerning symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, unexplained changes to bowel habits, or abdominal pain, could be indicative of a more serious condition, like colon cancer. Because of the importance of screenings or colonoscopy (investigating the colon using small camera), it is recommended to have regular screenings and colonoscopy if you are greater than 50 years old or if you have a family history of colon/rectal cancer.
When to Seek Medical Attention
There are many reasons for blood in stool and most are benign, but there are some reasons requiring attention to your healthcare provider right away. Call your healthcare provider right away if you experience the following factors:
- Heavy Bleeding: If you see a lot of blood or you have heavier bleeding, you should seek a healthcare provider immediately.
- Other Symptoms: If you feel severe abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, or any other symptoms that feel concerning to you, they may be a clue to a serious condition.
- Repeat Problems: If you see blood in your poop repeatedly or notice repeated changes in bowel habits, you should call and set an appointment up with your healthcare provider.
If you spot blood in your stool, a gastroenterologist will be able to provide specific care. They will examine you and gather information through a medical history and diagnostic testing. Diagnostic testing may include a colonoscopy to determine the specific reason for the flecks or streaks of blood.
Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Rectal Bleeding
While it is possible to avoid the causes of blood in stool, you can significantly reduce your chances of having an issue like hemorrhoids or an anal fissure by making some lifestyle changes. You should consider moisturizing your diet by maintaining adequate hydration, increasing fiber consumption, being mindful of how you sit and reach during bowel movements, and one can frequently treat oneself with physical activity to potentially improve gastrointestinal comfort and stool regularity.
Conclusion
So, this shows how blood in stool can be a scary symptom and understanding possible diagnoses and knowing when to seek advice will help you make informed decisions. It is important that you understand all about it to make the right decision without any delay. You must consider reaching out to a gastroenterologist when you experience blood in your stool consistently to avail proper diagnostic opinion on your issues. If you are looking for one, then for complete support and care, contact Deepasri Hospital today for your appointment with the best in the business!
