Left Lower Abdominal Pain and Blood in Stool: Key Insights

Q: Left Lower Abdominal Pain and Blood in Stool: Key Insights

Hello： Fecal occult blood refers to blood that is not visible to the naked eye but can be detected through chemical or immunological methods in laboratory tests. <br>Possible causes of positive fecal occult blood include hemorrhoids, inflammation, polyps, and tumors, which necess

Left lower abdominal pain with blood in the stool after defecation?

Hello doctor, a few months ago I occasionally experienced pain in my lower left abdomen, but it resolved after a few days, so I did not seek medical attention.
Recently, the pain returned, prompting me to visit a clinic where I was prescribed some gastrointestinal medications that provided slight relief, although I experienced side effects such as constipation.
Lately, I have also been experiencing abdominal pain at night, but I have difficulty having bowel movements (I have a bit of irritable bowel syndrome).
Before seeking medical attention, my stool color was normal, leaning towards dark brown, and there was no blood upon wiping, but occasionally I noticed brown sediment at the bottom of my stool.
Recently, after a bowel movement with sediment, the surrounding area appeared light red, and I also noticed some slight red spots in the stool.
During a previous episode of abdominal pain, my stool often had white specks, but the clinic doctor believed it was due to indigestion.
I would like to ask if these symptoms could be early signs of colorectal cancer.
I was diagnosed with internal hemorrhoids a year ago and occasionally experience irritable bowel syndrome.
Recently, my gastrointestinal discomfort has been bothering me at night.
Additionally, I would like to inquire whether the definition of occult blood in stool refers to the light red appearance around the sediment after a bowel movement.

Miss Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/01

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: Fecal occult blood refers to blood that is not visible to the naked eye but can be detected through chemical or immunological methods in laboratory tests.
Possible causes of positive fecal occult blood include hemorrhoids, inflammation, polyps, and tumors, which necessitate further endoscopic examination to determine the cause.
As for the symptoms you are concerned about potentially indicating colorectal cancer, it is difficult to say.
It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist to arrange for a fecal occult blood test and, if necessary, an endoscopy to confirm the diagnosis.
Sometimes, variations in stool color that are visible to the naked eye are simply due to the digestion of food and may not be a cause for concern.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-Shun.

Reply Date: 2016/08/01

More Info

Left lower abdominal pain can be a complex symptom with various potential causes, especially in the context of your history of gastrointestinal issues and hemorrhoids. Understanding the nuances of your symptoms is crucial in determining the underlying cause and appropriate management.

Firstly, the left lower abdominal pain you are experiencing could be related to several factors. Given your history of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), it is possible that your symptoms are linked to this condition. IBS can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, which may explain the intermittent nature of your pain. Stress, dietary choices, and other lifestyle factors can exacerbate IBS symptoms, leading to discomfort that may feel like cramping or sharp pain.

The presence of brown sediment in your stool, along with the occasional red spots, raises concerns about potential gastrointestinal bleeding. While the red spots could be attributed to your known hemorrhoids, which can cause minor bleeding, the brown sediment might suggest other issues, such as undigested food particles or bile. It is essential to differentiate between benign causes of bleeding and more serious conditions, such as colorectal cancer, especially given your concerns.

Regarding your question about the definition of fecal occult blood, it refers to the presence of blood in the stool that is not visible to the naked eye but can be detected through specific tests. The faint red color you observed around the sediment may not necessarily indicate occult blood, but it is important to have this evaluated by a healthcare professional. A stool test for occult blood can help determine if there is any hidden bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract.

Considering your symptoms and history, it is advisable to pursue further evaluation. A colonoscopy may be warranted to rule out any significant pathology, especially if your symptoms persist or worsen. This procedure allows for direct visualization of the colon and can help identify polyps, inflammation, or other abnormalities that may not be apparent through imaging studies or physical examinations.

In addition to a colonoscopy, it may be beneficial to consult with a gastroenterologist who can provide specialized insight into your symptoms. They may recommend dietary modifications, medications to manage IBS, or other interventions based on their findings.

In summary, while your symptoms could be related to IBS or hemorrhoids, the presence of blood and sediment in your stool warrants further investigation to rule out more serious conditions. It is essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and concerns, as early detection and intervention can significantly impact outcomes. Maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and managing stress are also crucial components of gastrointestinal health. If you experience any alarming symptoms, such as significant weight loss, persistent abdominal pain, or changes in bowel habits, seek medical attention promptly.

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