Persistent Rectal Bleeding and Constipation: When to Seek Medical Help?

Persistent rectal bleeding and constipation?

I previously visited a doctor who confirmed that there was a slight damage to the vaginal wall tissue, and I occasionally applied hemorrhoid cream.
However, after a month, the condition has not improved, and I have started experiencing constipation (which I did not have before).
There is no pain during bowel movements, but sometimes there is bleeding and sometimes there isn't.
Should I go back to see a doctor, or should I continue using the hemorrhoid cream?

WJK, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/29

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery

Vaginal wall? Or rectal wall? These are distinctly different issues, so could it be that you applied the ointment in the wrong location? Injuries to the vaginal wall in young women are often related to sexual activity; it may be necessary to adjust and increase lubrication during initial stages and reduce the frequency of recent activities.
Hemorrhoids are associated with the rectal wall and the mucosal tissue around the anus.
Generally, a simple symptomatic treatment involves applying ointment and changing post-defecation wiping habits (such as rinsing with clean water or taking a warm sitz bath before gently patting dry).
The fundamental approach involves addressing constipation issues.
Typically, during constipation, harder stools can accumulate in the rectal area, leading to pressure that alters local mucosal circulation, making hemorrhoids more likely.
However, while blood in the stool is most commonly caused by hemorrhoids or damage to the intestinal mucosa (for example, after multiple episodes of diarrhea), it cannot rule out the possibility of benign or malignant tumors or other lesions in the intestines.
It is advisable to first adjust dietary habits (such as drinking more water, consuming high-fiber fruits and vegetables, and modifying defecation posture).
If blood in the stool persists despite these changes, it is recommended to consult a colorectal surgeon or gastroenterologist for the prescription of stool softeners, a digital rectal examination, or a colonoscopy to further investigate the issue.

Reply Date: 2016/06/29

More Info

Persistent rectal bleeding and constipation can be concerning symptoms that warrant medical attention. Given your situation, it is essential to understand the potential causes and when to seek further evaluation from a healthcare professional.

Firstly, the presence of rectal bleeding, even if it is intermittent, should not be ignored, especially if it has persisted for a month without improvement. While hemorrhoids are a common cause of rectal bleeding, other conditions could also be responsible, including anal fissures, diverticular disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or even more serious conditions such as colorectal polyps or cancer. The fact that you have experienced a change in bowel habits, specifically the onset of constipation, adds another layer of complexity to your symptoms.

Constipation can lead to straining during bowel movements, which may exacerbate any existing anal or rectal issues, potentially causing further injury or irritation to the area. If you are experiencing constipation for the first time, it is crucial to address this issue as well. Dietary changes, increased fluid intake, and possibly the use of over-the-counter laxatives can help alleviate constipation. However, if these measures do not improve your symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

In your case, since you have already been diagnosed with some damage to the vaginal wall and have been using hemorrhoid cream, it is important to assess whether the current treatment is effective. If you have not seen any improvement in your symptoms after a month, it may be time to revisit your doctor. They may recommend a more thorough examination, such as a digital rectal exam or even a colonoscopy, to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

Additionally, if you notice any of the following warning signs, you should seek medical attention immediately:
1. Significant or worsening rectal bleeding.

2. Blood in your stool that is bright red or dark and tarry.

3. Severe abdominal pain or cramping.

4. Unexplained weight loss.

5. Changes in bowel habits that persist beyond a few days.

It is also worth mentioning that if you experience any signs of infection, such as fever or chills, you should seek medical help promptly.

In summary, while it may be tempting to continue using the hemorrhoid cream and wait for improvement, the persistence of your symptoms, particularly the rectal bleeding and new onset of constipation, suggests that a follow-up with your healthcare provider is warranted. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and determine the best course of action to address your symptoms effectively. Remember, early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so do not hesitate to seek help.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Rectal Bleeding: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello, Doctor: I have been experiencing some constipation these past few days, requiring significant effort to pass stool. The stool is quite hard and dark brown in color. I have observed that there are no bright red blood streaks in the toilet water or the stool. However, this m...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
This situation likely indicates a higher possibility of hemorrhoidal bleeding. As long as there is no further bleeding, it should not be a concern. It is recommended to avoid constipation during this period and to shorten the time spent on bowel movements. Warm sitz baths may als...

Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing constipation issues, sometimes having a bowel movement every 3 to 4 days, and at one point, it was a week between movements. My bowel habits have changed over the past few months; sometimes I am constipated, and other times I have diarrhea, ...

Understanding Rectal Bleeding: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello Doctor: About a year ago, I started experiencing occasional rectal bleeding during bowel movements. The stool and blood come out separately, with the blood being bright red. There is blood in the toilet and on the toilet paper. This occurs approximately once every few month...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
This situation likely indicates a higher possibility of hemorrhoidal bleeding. As long as there is no further bleeding, it should not be a major concern. It is recommended to avoid constipation during this period and to shorten the time spent on bowel movements. Warm sitz baths m...

Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing chronic constipation for a long time. About six months ago, I started seeing a doctor who prescribed medication, but I usually only take it if I haven't had a bowel movement for more than three days. I know that constipation can lead to...

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery
Based on age and medical history, the likelihood seems low; however, further examination is still recommended. Additionally, it is advised to regularly use stool softeners, increase fluid intake, and reduce the chances of hard stools, as this would be the fundamental solution.