Rectal Bleeding: Causes and When to Seek Help - Surgery

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Rectal bleeding can be a concerning symptom, and it is essential to understand its potential causes and when to seek medical help. The presence of blood in the stool or on toilet paper can arise from various conditions, some of which may require immediate attention.


Possible Causes of Rectal Bleeding
1. Hemorrhoids: One of the most common causes of rectal bleeding, hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectal area. They can cause bright red blood during bowel movements, especially if there is straining involved.

2. Anal Fissures: These are small tears in the lining of the anus, often caused by passing hard stools. They can lead to sharp pain and bleeding during bowel movements.

3. Diverticular Disease: Diverticulosis, which involves the formation of small pouches in the colon wall, can lead to diverticulitis, where these pouches become inflamed or infected, causing bleeding.

4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to rectal bleeding.

5. Polyps or Colorectal Cancer: Polyps are growths on the colon lining that can bleed. Some polyps can develop into cancer, which is why any rectal bleeding should be evaluated, especially in individuals over 50 or those with a family history of colorectal cancer.

6. Gastrointestinal Infections: Certain infections can cause inflammation and bleeding in the intestines, leading to blood in the stool.

7. Other Causes: Less commonly, bleeding can result from conditions such as vascular malformations, trauma, or systemic diseases affecting blood clotting.


When to Seek Medical Help
It is crucial to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Significant Bleeding: If you notice a large amount of blood, especially if it is dark or mixed with stool, you should seek immediate medical care.

- Accompanying Symptoms: If you have other symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, or changes in bowel habits, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider.

- Persistent Bleeding: If the bleeding continues over several days or recurs frequently, you should see a doctor for further evaluation.

- Age and Risk Factors: Individuals over 50 or those with a family history of colorectal cancer should be particularly vigilant and discuss any rectal bleeding with their healthcare provider.


Diagnostic Approach
When you visit a healthcare provider for rectal bleeding, they may perform several evaluations, including:
- Physical Examination: A thorough examination, including a digital rectal exam, can help identify hemorrhoids or fissures.

- Anoscopy or Sigmoidoscopy: These procedures allow the doctor to visualize the rectum and lower colon to identify any abnormalities.

- Colonoscopy: If necessary, a colonoscopy may be performed to examine the entire colon and potentially remove polyps or take biopsies.

- Imaging Studies: In some cases, imaging studies like CT scans may be required to assess for diverticulitis or other conditions.


Conclusion
In summary, rectal bleeding can stem from various causes, ranging from benign conditions like hemorrhoids to more serious issues such as colorectal cancer. Given your symptoms of blood during bowel movements, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing any underlying conditions effectively. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to symptoms like rectal bleeding.