Constipation with Blood and Mucus: When to Seek Help

Constipation, with blood present in the stool, and sometimes accompanied by clear liquid?

Hello, doctor.
I've been struggling with constipation for a long time.
At first, I thought it was due to my lack of vegetable intake, so I improved my diet and started consuming more vegetables.
However, the problem hasn't been resolved and has gradually worsened.
My bowel movements are infrequent, occurring almost every four days or more.
Each time I do have a bowel movement, there is blood present, sometimes more, sometimes less (I'm not sure how to quantify it).
A few times, I've also noticed clear mucus.
I've read some information online, and I'm actually worried that I might have colorectal cancer.
However, I feel that my diet is not very unbalanced, and I don't often eat fried or heavily processed foods.
I'm not sure what your thoughts are on this...

Yi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/22

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

It is recommended to first consult a colorectal surgeon to rule out any anal or rectal conditions.
A colonoscopy will only be suggested if necessary.

Reply Date: 2016/03/22

More Info

Constipation accompanied by blood and mucus can be concerning, and it's important to understand the potential implications and when to seek medical help. Based on your description, it sounds like you've made efforts to improve your diet by incorporating more vegetables, yet your symptoms persist and have worsened. This situation warrants a closer examination.

First, let's address the symptoms you're experiencing. Constipation itself is defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week, and it can be caused by a variety of factors including diet, hydration, physical activity, and certain medications. The presence of blood in your stool is particularly concerning, as it can indicate several underlying issues. Blood can appear in different forms, such as bright red blood, which may suggest bleeding from the lower gastrointestinal tract, or darker blood, which could indicate bleeding from higher up in the digestive system.

The mucus you mentioned can also be a sign of irritation or inflammation in the intestines. Mucus is a normal secretion in the intestines, but an increase in its production, especially when accompanied by blood, can indicate conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), infections, or even colorectal cancer, particularly if you are over the age of 50 or have a family history of colorectal cancer.

Given your symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention. Here are some reasons why you should consult a healthcare professional:
1. Evaluation of Symptoms: A doctor can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly laboratory tests or imaging studies, to determine the cause of your constipation, blood, and mucus.

2. Screening for Serious Conditions: While dietary changes are a good first step, the presence of blood and mucus warrants further investigation to rule out serious conditions such as colorectal cancer, especially if you have risk factors or if your symptoms persist.

3. Management of Constipation: A healthcare provider can help you develop a comprehensive plan to manage your constipation. This may include dietary recommendations, hydration strategies, and possibly medications or supplements to promote regular bowel movements.

4. Referral to a Specialist: If necessary, your primary care physician may refer you to a gastroenterologist, a specialist who can conduct more specific tests such as a colonoscopy to visualize the colon and rectum directly.

5. Monitoring and Follow-Up: Regular follow-up is essential to monitor your symptoms and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

In summary, while dietary changes are beneficial, the combination of constipation, blood, and mucus in your stool is a red flag that should not be ignored. It is advisable to seek medical attention promptly to ensure that any serious conditions are ruled out and to receive appropriate treatment for your symptoms. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and peace of mind.

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