Blood in Stool: When to Seek Medical Attention and Which Specialist to See

Q: Blood in Stool: When to Seek Medical Attention and Which Specialist to See

Hello： Please take a moment to review the colorectal examination information from the Ministry of Health and Welfare Changhua Hospital. <br>We care about your health.

Blood in the stool?

Hello Dr.
Yu,
This morning after using the restroom and cleaning myself, I noticed bright red blood on the toilet paper.
Upon further observation, I found several pieces of stool that were light yellow, somewhat soft, and slightly fuzzy.
One piece of stool had a small spot of bright red blood on its surface, but it was not much.
I experienced a similar situation about a week ago.
I felt a slight urge to defecate before going to the bathroom.
Previously, due to work-related stress, I would only have a bowel movement every three to four days, and sometimes I would feel pain around the anus during wiping (similar to a skin tear).
Over the past week, I have been having bowel movements approximately every two days, with stool consistency ranging from loose to soft-formed.
My usual diet tends to be on the heavier side, and I may not be drinking the recommended daily amount of water.
My mother was diagnosed with kidney cancer about four years ago, and after surgery, she has been having regular check-ups every six months with no major issues.

Do you think I need to go to the hospital for further examination? If so, which department would be most appropriate to visit first? Thank you.

J, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/07/27

Dr. Yu Mingchang reply Surgery

Hello: Please take a moment to review the colorectal examination information from the Ministry of Health and Welfare Changhua Hospital.
We care about your health.

Reply Date: 2016/07/27

More Info

When it comes to noticing blood in your stool, it is essential to take this symptom seriously and seek medical attention promptly. The presence of bright red blood can indicate several conditions, ranging from benign issues to more serious health concerns. Given your description of the symptoms, including the presence of blood on toilet paper and the pain during bowel movements, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

When to Seek Medical Attention
You should seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
1. Persistent Blood: If the blood in your stool continues or worsens, it is crucial to consult a doctor.

2. Accompanying Symptoms: If you experience additional symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, or significant changes in bowel habits, you should seek immediate care.

3. Changes in Stool Color: If your stool changes to a darker color or becomes black and tarry, this could indicate bleeding from higher up in the gastrointestinal tract and requires urgent evaluation.

4. Pain or Discomfort: If you have persistent pain or discomfort during bowel movements, this could indicate an anal fissure or hemorrhoids, but it still warrants a doctor's visit.

Which Specialist to See
For your symptoms, the most appropriate specialist to see would be a gastroenterologist. Gastroenterologists specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas. They can perform necessary examinations, such as a colonoscopy, to determine the cause of the bleeding.

Possible Causes of Blood in Stool
The presence of blood in your stool can be attributed to various causes, including:
- Hemorrhoids: Swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus that can cause bleeding during bowel movements.

- Anal Fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus, often caused by passing hard stools, which can lead to pain and bleeding.

- Diverticular Disease: Small pouches that can form in the walls of the colon and may become inflamed or infected.

- Gastrointestinal Infections: Certain infections can cause inflammation and bleeding in the digestive tract.

- Polyps or Colorectal Cancer: While less common, polyps can bleed, and colorectal cancer is a serious condition that can present with blood in the stool.

Lifestyle Considerations
Given your mention of dietary habits and hydration, it may be beneficial to make some lifestyle changes:
1. Increase Fiber Intake: Incorporate more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet to help soften stools and promote regular bowel movements.

2. Stay Hydrated: Aim to drink adequate amounts of water daily, as dehydration can lead to constipation and exacerbate anal fissures or hemorrhoids.

3. Manage Stress: Since you mentioned work-related stress, consider stress management techniques such as mindfulness, exercise, or talking to a professional.

Conclusion
In summary, the presence of blood in your stool is a symptom that should not be ignored. It is essential to consult a gastroenterologist for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management. Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to better outcomes, especially if there are underlying conditions that need to be addressed. Additionally, making lifestyle changes to improve your diet and hydration can help prevent future issues.

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