Blood in Stool: Causes and What to Do Next - Surgery

More Info

---

The presence of bright red blood in your stool, along with the symptoms you described, can be concerning and warrants immediate medical attention. There are several potential causes for these symptoms, and understanding them is crucial for determining the appropriate next steps.

1. Hemorrhoids: One of the most common causes of bright red blood in the stool is hemorrhoids. These are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus that can bleed during bowel movements, especially if you are straining. The blood is usually bright red and may appear on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl.

2. Anal Fissures: Another common cause is an anal fissure, which is a small tear in the lining of the anus. This can occur due to passing hard stools or straining during bowel movements. Like hemorrhoids, anal fissures can cause bright red blood and may be accompanied by pain during bowel movements.

3. Diverticular Disease: Diverticulosis, a condition where small pouches form in the colon wall, can lead to diverticulitis, which is the inflammation of these pouches. This can cause bleeding and may result in blood in the stool.

4. Colorectal Polyps or Cancer: While less common, polyps (growths on the colon lining) and colorectal cancer can also cause bleeding. The blood may be bright red or darker, depending on where the bleeding is occurring in the digestive tract.

5. Gastrointestinal Infections: Certain infections can cause inflammation and bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to blood in the stool. This is often accompanied by other symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever.

6. Other Conditions: Other potential causes include inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, as well as vascular malformations in the gastrointestinal tract.

Given the severity of your symptoms—especially the bright red blood and the presence of blood clots—it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare provider will likely perform a thorough evaluation, which may include:
- Physical Examination: A physical exam, including a rectal exam, to check for hemorrhoids or fissures.

- Medical History: Discussing your symptoms, medical history, and any medications you are taking.

- Diagnostic Tests: Depending on the initial findings, your doctor may recommend further tests, such as a colonoscopy, to visualize the colon and identify any abnormalities.

In the meantime, it is advisable to avoid straining during bowel movements, maintain a high-fiber diet to soften stools, and stay hydrated. Over-the-counter remedies for hemorrhoids or fissures may provide temporary relief, but they do not replace the need for a medical evaluation.

In summary, the presence of blood in your stool is a symptom that should not be ignored. It can arise from various conditions, some of which may require urgent treatment. Therefore, I strongly recommend that you consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate care.