Blood in Stool: Causes and Solutions for Painful Bowel Movements

Blood in the stool?

I have a bowel movement every day, but in the past two weeks, I have had 3 to 5 instances of very large stools, and my anus has been painful.
Initially, there was no bleeding, but now I have started to bleed.
Just now, I was in so much pain while trying to have a bowel movement that I didn't want to push it out.
However, my diet has improved significantly recently, as my parents have been making fresh vegetable and fruit juices for us to drink.
In the past, my bowel movements were not like this; now they are so large that it hurts my backside.
Additionally, I have been experiencing a cold, but my head feels more dizzy than with previous colds, to the point where wearing glasses makes me feel dizzy.
I'm not sure if this is related.
😅

Doris, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/19

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery

Rectal bleeding is an abnormal symptom that can range from common hemorrhoids to other serious gastrointestinal diseases.
Based on your description, it is more likely that the bleeding is caused by hemorrhoids due to constipation.
As for the dizziness, it is essential to rule out whether chronic hemorrhoidal bleeding has led to anemia.
It is recommended to visit a gastroenterology or surgical outpatient clinic for further examination and treatment.

Reply Date: 2016/04/19

More Info

Experiencing blood in your stool, especially accompanied by pain during bowel movements, can be concerning and warrants careful attention. Based on your description, it seems that you are dealing with a few potential issues that could be contributing to your symptoms.
Firstly, the presence of blood in your stool can be attributed to several causes, with the most common being hemorrhoids (piles) and anal fissures. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus that can cause discomfort, itching, and bleeding, especially during bowel movements. Anal fissures, on the other hand, are small tears in the lining of the anus, often resulting from passing hard or large stools, which can lead to sharp pain and bleeding during and after bowel movements.

Given that you mentioned your stools have become larger and that you are experiencing significant pain, it is possible that you are dealing with anal fissures. The pain you describe, especially if it feels sharp or like a stabbing sensation, is characteristic of fissures. The blood you see may be bright red, indicating that it is coming from the lower gastrointestinal tract, likely from the anal area rather than deeper within the intestines.

Your recent dietary changes, including increased consumption of fruits and vegetables, are generally beneficial for digestive health. However, if your body is not used to such a sudden increase in fiber, it can lead to larger stools, which may be difficult to pass and could contribute to the pain and bleeding you are experiencing. It's essential to ensure that you are also drinking plenty of water to help soften your stools and facilitate easier bowel movements.

Additionally, you mentioned experiencing dizziness and feeling more fatigued than usual, which could be related to your recent illness or possibly even to dehydration, especially if you are not consuming enough fluids. It's crucial to stay hydrated, particularly when increasing fiber intake, as fiber absorbs water and can lead to constipation if not enough fluids are consumed.

Here are some steps you can take to alleviate your symptoms:
1. Increase Hydration: Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. This will help soften your stools and make them easier to pass.

2. Dietary Adjustments: Continue to consume a balanced diet rich in fiber, but consider gradually increasing your fiber intake to allow your body to adjust. Foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are excellent sources of fiber.

3. Avoid Straining: When you feel the urge to have a bowel movement, try not to strain. Straining can worsen fissures and hemorrhoids. If you feel pain, it may be better to wait until the urge is stronger.

4. Warm Baths: Taking warm baths can help soothe the anal area and promote relaxation, which may alleviate some discomfort.

5. Over-the-Counter Treatments: Consider using over-the-counter creams or ointments designed for hemorrhoids or fissures, which can provide relief from pain and promote healing.

6. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If your symptoms persist, worsen, or if you notice significant amounts of blood, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend further evaluation, such as a physical examination or possibly a colonoscopy, to rule out other potential causes of bleeding.

In summary, while your symptoms may be indicative of common issues like hemorrhoids or anal fissures, it is crucial to monitor your condition closely. Maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding straining during bowel movements can significantly help. If your symptoms do not improve or if you have any concerns, seeking medical advice is the best course of action.

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