Should You See a Doctor for Blood in Stool and Rectal Pain?

Rectal bleeding

This morning, my stool was dark brown, and at the end, there was a small piece of dark red.
I have a history of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
The first bowel movement was dark brown and formed, with no blood.
The second was unformed and had a small piece of dark red.
Should I go to the hospital for an examination? Additionally, after the bowel movement, I experienced a stinging sensation in my anus.

Hong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/17

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Based on your description, it seems to be a typical symptom of anal fissure, which is characterized by pain during bowel movements accompanied by slight bleeding.
If there is concurrent bleeding from hemorrhoids, the amount of blood may be greater.
The primary cause of anal fissures is usually hard stools, but diarrhea, frequent bowel movements, or prolonged straining can also lead to fissures.
It is recommended to improve bowel habits and to take warm sitz baths to alleviate symptoms.
Topical ointments and suppositories can also be used for treatment.
If conservative treatment does not yield satisfactory results, surgical intervention may be considered.
If symptoms persist for more than a week without improvement, it is important to consult a physician to identify the underlying issue.

Reply Date: 2016/10/17

More Info

Experiencing blood in your stool and rectal pain can be concerning and warrants careful consideration. Given your symptoms of dark brown stool, a small amount of dark red blood, and rectal pain, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. Here’s why:
1. Potential Causes: Blood in the stool can arise from various sources, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, diverticular disease, gastrointestinal bleeding, or more serious conditions such as colorectal cancer. The dark brown color of your stool may indicate that the blood is coming from higher up in the gastrointestinal tract, which could be more serious than blood from hemorrhoids or fissures.

2. Symptoms to Monitor: The presence of rectal pain, especially if it is sharp or persistent, can indicate an underlying issue that needs to be evaluated. If you also experience other symptoms such as abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, weight loss, or fatigue, these could further suggest a need for immediate medical evaluation.

3. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): You mentioned having gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). While GERD primarily affects the esophagus and stomach, it can sometimes lead to complications that might indirectly affect bowel health. However, the symptoms you describe are more likely related to a separate gastrointestinal issue.

4. Diagnostic Procedures: If you visit a healthcare provider, they may recommend several diagnostic tests, including a physical examination, stool tests, and possibly imaging studies or endoscopy to visualize the gastrointestinal tract. These tests can help identify the source of the bleeding and determine the appropriate treatment.

5. When to Seek Immediate Care: If you notice significant amounts of blood, experience severe abdominal pain, or have symptoms like dizziness or fainting, you should seek emergency medical care. These could be signs of a more serious condition requiring immediate intervention.

6. Treatment Options: Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of your symptoms. If hemorrhoids or fissures are diagnosed, conservative treatments such as dietary changes, topical medications, or sitz baths may be recommended. More serious conditions may require medications or surgical interventions.

In conclusion, given your symptoms of blood in the stool and rectal pain, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and address any potential health issues effectively. Do not hesitate to seek medical attention, as it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to gastrointestinal symptoms.

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