Sticky Blood Clots in Stool: Causes and Concerns

Presence of sticky blood clots in stool?

Hello, Director.
I apologize for the lengthy message.
I have been undergoing treatment with antibiotics and other medications for about a month due to urinary stones and sinusitis.
During this month, my physical condition has led to feelings of depression and loss of appetite, resulting in a weight loss of 10 kilograms.
I have also experienced gastrointestinal discomfort, with my bowel movements being consistently soft and mushy for over a month.
At times, they have been thin and short.
Additionally, there have been two instances where I noticed bright red blood on the toilet paper after wiping, though the amount was minimal.
There was also one occasion where I observed a thick, clotted substance that was bright red on the toilet paper after wiping.
Another symptom I have is pain whenever gas or stool is near the anus.
I also experience pain when standing up, sitting down, walking, and occasionally when urinating, especially towards the end when I exert a little effort.
I have already visited a colorectal surgeon who performed a digital rectal exam and a sigmoidoscopy.
The doctor mentioned that I have internal hemorrhoids and scheduled a colonoscopy, which did not reveal any polyps or significant issues, except for one inflamed area that was not specified.
During the colonoscopy, there was some bleeding observed, but the doctor indicated that it was likely due to the scope or tube and was not a major concern.
I have undergone outpatient surgery to address the internal hemorrhoids.
My appetite has since improved, but my bowel movement issues persist.
This morning, I again noticed a thick, clotted substance in my stool, which was darker red compared to the previous instance, and there was a longer, dried portion that was separate from the stool.
I would like to ask you, Director, what could be the underlying issue of my symptoms? Is the viscous blood-clot-like substance caused by the internal hemorrhoids? What could be the cause of the pain? How significant is the impact of the antibiotics? I appreciate your assistance in addressing my concerns.

Zhuang Zhuang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/21

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Long-term use of antibiotics can lead to the condition known as pseudomembranous colitis, with symptoms similar to what you described.
However, if a colonoscopy has already been performed, it should confirm that there are no issues.
Based on your description, it seems more like irritable bowel syndrome combined with hemorrhoidal bleeding.
It is advisable to maintain a light diet and a good lifestyle routine.
If symptoms persist without improvement, you may consult a physician for medication.

Reply Date: 2016/04/21

More Info

Understanding the presence of sticky blood clots in stool can be concerning, especially when accompanied by other gastrointestinal symptoms. Based on your description, it seems you have been experiencing a range of symptoms, including soft or loose stools, occasional bright red blood on toilet paper, and the presence of what appears to be sticky blood clots. You also mentioned experiencing pain during bowel movements and when sitting or standing, which can be quite distressing.

Firstly, the presence of bright red blood in the stool or on toilet paper is often indicative of bleeding from the lower gastrointestinal tract, particularly from the rectum or anus. This can be caused by several factors, with hemorrhoids (internal or external) being one of the most common culprits. Internal hemorrhoids can cause bleeding during bowel movements, especially if there is straining or if the stool is hard. They can also lead to the formation of blood clots, which may appear as sticky or gelatinous material in the stool.

The fact that you have undergone a digital rectal exam and a colonoscopy, which did not reveal any significant issues aside from inflammation and hemorrhoids, is reassuring. However, the inflammation noted during the colonoscopy could suggest a mild form of colitis or irritation in the bowel, which may contribute to your symptoms. It's important to follow up with your healthcare provider regarding the specific area of inflammation to determine if further investigation or treatment is necessary.

Regarding the sticky blood clots you mentioned, these could potentially be remnants of blood mixed with mucus or other materials from the gastrointestinal tract. The color change from bright red to darker red may indicate that the blood has been in the digestive tract for a longer period, which can occur if there is bleeding further up in the gastrointestinal tract or if the blood is mixed with stool.

As for the pain you are experiencing, it could be related to the internal hemorrhoids, especially if they are thrombosed (clotted). This can cause significant discomfort, particularly during bowel movements or when pressure is applied to the area. Additionally, any inflammation in the rectal area can lead to pain and discomfort.

The use of antibiotics, especially over an extended period, can disrupt the normal gut flora, potentially leading to gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea or changes in bowel habits. Antibiotics can also contribute to the development of antibiotic-associated colitis, which may cause inflammation and discomfort in the intestines.

Given your symptoms and the recent history of antibiotic use, it would be prudent to continue monitoring your condition. If the symptoms persist or worsen, or if you experience increased pain, changes in bowel habits, or additional bleeding, it would be advisable to seek further evaluation from a gastroenterologist. They may consider additional tests or treatments to address any underlying issues, such as dietary modifications, stool softeners, or topical treatments for hemorrhoids.

In summary, while your symptoms may be primarily related to internal hemorrhoids and possible inflammation, it is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. They can help guide you through the management of your symptoms and ensure that any significant issues are addressed promptly. Always prioritize your health and do not hesitate to seek further medical advice if you feel it is necessary.

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