Seeing Blood in Stool: What Could It Mean for Your Health?

Blood in the stool... or something like that?

Hello, doctor.
This afternoon, after I had a bowel movement, I noticed one or two wine-red spots on the stool that looked somewhat like white blood cells from a biology textbook, with some strands around them.
I was startled to see blood when I wiped.
However, I didn't notice any blood in the rest of the stool, which was quite large.
As a high school student, I mostly eat out, and the small portion of vegetables in my bento box doesn't feel sufficient for my tall stature.
As a result, I often experience difficulty with bowel movements during class, and my stomach feels more bloated than when I was in middle school (when I ate home-cooked meals with plenty of vegetables, my bowel movements were relatively normal).
Since the summer vacation started, my stomach has felt a bit uncomfortable—not painful, but just strange.
When I lie down, I feel some discomfort in my lower abdomen, and I tend to take a long time to have a bowel movement.
I'm really worried that this might be something serious.
Could you please provide some answers, doctor? Thank you!

Peng Tongxue, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/21

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

At the age of 16, the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer is not zero, but it is generally very, very low.
Based on your description, it seems more like hemorrhoidal bleeding.
I recommend starting with a light diet and maintaining a good lifestyle.
If the symptoms persist without improvement, you can ask a physician for medication.
If there is still no improvement or if you are very concerned, you may also consider scheduling a colonoscopy.

Reply Date: 2016/08/21

More Info

Seeing blood in your stool can be alarming, and it's understandable that you're feeling scared and concerned about your health. Blood in the stool can indicate a variety of conditions, some of which may require immediate medical attention. Let's break down what you might be experiencing based on the symptoms you've described.

1. Possible Causes of Blood in Stool: The presence of dark red or maroon-colored spots in your stool could be due to several reasons:
- Hemorrhoids: These are swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus that can bleed during bowel movements, leading to blood on the toilet paper or in the stool.

- Anal Fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus can cause bleeding, especially if you're straining during bowel movements.

- Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Conditions such as diverticulosis, polyps, or even more serious issues like colorectal cancer can cause bleeding in the digestive tract.

- Dietary Factors: Since you mentioned that your diet primarily consists of takeout and that you may not be getting enough fiber, this could lead to constipation and straining, which can exacerbate hemorrhoids or fissures.

2. Your Symptoms: The discomfort in your lower abdomen and the feeling of bloating could be related to your diet. A diet low in fiber can lead to constipation, which can cause straining and discomfort during bowel movements. This, in turn, can lead to the development of hemorrhoids or anal fissures, which could explain the blood you're seeing.

3. Dietary Considerations: As a high school student, it's crucial to maintain a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and adequate hydration. This can help prevent constipation and promote regular bowel movements. Consider incorporating more fiber-rich foods into your meals, such as:
- Fruits (e.g., apples, berries, bananas)
- Vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, leafy greens)
- Whole grains (e.g., brown rice, whole wheat bread, oats)
- Legumes (e.g., beans, lentils)
4. When to Seek Medical Attention: While some causes of blood in the stool are benign, others can be serious. You should seek medical attention if:
- The blood persists or worsens.

- You experience significant abdominal pain.

- You notice changes in your bowel habits (e.g., diarrhea or constipation lasting more than a few days).

- You experience other symptoms such as weight loss, fatigue, or changes in appetite.

5. Next Steps: It would be wise to consult a healthcare professional about your symptoms. They may recommend a physical examination, and possibly tests such as a stool test or colonoscopy, to determine the cause of the bleeding.
In summary, while blood in the stool can be concerning, it can often be attributed to less serious conditions like hemorrhoids or dietary issues. However, given your symptoms and dietary habits, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider to rule out any serious conditions and to receive guidance on improving your diet and overall digestive health. Remember, early intervention is key to managing health issues effectively.

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