Blood in Stool: Symptoms, Causes, and Dietary Tips

Blood in the stool?

Doctor, I’m sorry, but I have three questions!
1.
In February of this year, I noticed blood (bright red) in my stool after not having a bowel movement for four days, and it was painful.
In April, I experienced bleeding for about a week, but it seemed to be superficial, accompanied by a sharp pain during bowel movements.
Recently, despite drinking a similar amount of water, I haven’t consumed vegetables for about two weeks, and my stool has two very distinct colors (dark brown and yellow).
The blood seems to be concentrated in the darker stool.
Once, I noticed blood accompanied by mucus.
Could this be colon cancer? I have never had bleeding before, even though I didn’t eat much vegetables in the past.
2.
Because I’m afraid to eat vegetables, my intake is very low, and I’m worried about insufficient fiber.
What other foods can increase my fiber intake? (Currently, I drink four 150cc bottles of yogurt per week.)
3.
Since I started noticing blood in my stool in February, I have been using a toilet brush and even my hands to examine my stool.
Is this useful, or is it sufficient to just look at the surface? Each time I check, the dark brown stool seems like a very deep red mixed with brown.
Once, I thought it really looked like deep red, so I smelled it, and it had a blood-like odor...
Could I have misinterpreted that?

Wen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/10

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

1.
Although the probability of developing colorectal cancer at the age of 23 is not zero, it is generally very low.
Based on your description, it seems more likely to be an anal fissure combined with hemorrhoidal bleeding.
It is recommended to maintain a light diet and a good lifestyle.
If symptoms persist without improvement, you may consult a physician for medication.
If there is still no improvement or if you are very concerned, you can arrange for a colonoscopy.
2.
To increase your intake of dietary fiber, the primary sources are vegetables and fruits.
There are also commercially available fiber supplements that you can purchase.
The soluble fiber found in beverages promotes intestinal motility, but it is not as effective as dietary fiber from food.
It is advisable to change your habit of avoiding vegetables.
3.
To determine if there is blood in your stool, you can undergo a fecal occult blood test at a hospital.
Judging solely by color and odor is not accurate.

Reply Date: 2016/08/10

More Info

Understanding blood in stool can be a concerning issue, and it's important to approach it with a clear understanding of potential causes, symptoms, and dietary considerations. Based on your description, you have experienced episodes of fresh blood in your stool, accompanied by pain and changes in stool color. Let's break down your questions and concerns.

1. Could this be colon cancer?
While the presence of blood in the stool can be alarming and is often associated with serious conditions like colorectal cancer, it is essential to consider other potential causes first. The symptoms you describe—fresh blood, pain during bowel movements, and changes in stool color—could be indicative of several conditions, including:
- Hemorrhoids: Swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus that can bleed 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 colon wall and may become inflamed or infected.

- Infections: Certain gastrointestinal infections can cause inflammation and bleeding.

Colorectal cancer is a possibility, especially if you have risk factors such as a family history of the disease, age over 50, or other concerning symptoms (like significant weight loss, changes in bowel habits, or persistent abdominal pain). However, given that you have had episodes of constipation and possibly anal fissures or hemorrhoids, these may be more likely explanations for your symptoms. It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, stool tests, and possibly a colonoscopy to rule out serious conditions.

2. Increasing fiber intake
You mentioned a low intake of vegetables, which can lead to insufficient fiber in your diet. Fiber is essential for maintaining healthy bowel movements and preventing constipation. If you're looking for alternatives to increase your fiber intake, consider the following:
- Fruits: Apples, bananas, berries, and pears are great sources of fiber.

- Whole grains: Foods like oatmeal, whole grain bread, brown rice, and quinoa can help boost your fiber intake.

- Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are high in fiber and can be added to soups, salads, or as side dishes.

- Nuts and seeds: Almonds, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are also good sources of fiber.

Incorporating these foods into your diet can help improve your digestive health and may alleviate some of the issues you're experiencing.

3. Should I examine my stool?
It's understandable to be concerned about the appearance of your stool, especially when experiencing symptoms like bleeding. While examining your stool can provide some information, it is not a substitute for professional medical evaluation. The color and consistency of stool can vary widely based on diet, hydration, and health status.
If you notice blood, especially if it is fresh and accompanied by pain, it is advisable to seek medical attention rather than relying solely on visual inspection. A healthcare provider can perform the necessary tests to determine the cause of the bleeding and recommend appropriate treatment.

Conclusion
In summary, while blood in the stool can be concerning, it is essential to consider various potential causes and not jump to conclusions about serious conditions like colon cancer without proper evaluation. Increasing your fiber intake through fruits, whole grains, legumes, and nuts can help improve your digestive health. However, the most important step is to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough assessment and appropriate diagnostic testing. They can provide you with the best guidance tailored to your specific situation.

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