Blood in Stool: When to Seek Medical Attention for Abdominal Pain

Blood in the stool?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask about my frequent abdominal pain.
Sometimes it's so severe that I can't walk.
I experienced this pain recently and it lasted a long time, but after taking some stomach medication from the hospital and having several bowel movements, the pain subsided.
However, in the past few days, I've noticed some abdominal discomfort, and I discovered blood in my stool.
Today, after having a bowel movement, I observed that blood gradually appeared and spread throughout the stool, leaving traces of blood behind.
Should I see a doctor for this?

Ms. Huang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/24

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

This situation likely indicates a higher possibility of hemorrhoidal bleeding.
As long as there is no further bleeding, it should not be a concern.
It is recommended to avoid constipation during this period and to shorten the time spent on bowel movements.
Warm sitz baths may also help alleviate symptoms.
You can purchase over-the-counter hemorrhoid suppositories, but it is best to avoid taking laxatives indiscriminately.
At this age, increasing the intake of dietary fiber and fluids should be sufficient.
If bleeding persists, it is advisable to consult a physician for evaluation.

Reply Date: 2016/10/24

More Info

If you are experiencing abdominal pain accompanied by blood in your stool, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Blood in the stool can be a sign of various underlying conditions, some of which may require immediate intervention.

Understanding the Symptoms
1. Abdominal Pain: The severity of your abdominal pain, especially if it is intense enough to prevent you from walking, is a significant indicator that something may be wrong. Abdominal pain can arise from numerous causes, including gastrointestinal issues, infections, or even more serious conditions like appendicitis or bowel obstruction.

2. Blood in Stool: The presence of blood in your stool is particularly concerning. It can manifest in different forms:
- Bright Red Blood: This often indicates bleeding from the lower gastrointestinal tract, such as hemorrhoids, diverticulosis, or colorectal cancer.

- Dark or Tarry Stool: This suggests bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract, such as ulcers or esophageal varices.

When to Seek Medical Attention
You should seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Severe or Persistent Abdominal Pain: If the pain is severe and does not improve or worsens over time.

- Blood in Stool: Any amount of blood in your stool should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms like pain, diarrhea, or changes in bowel habits.

- Accompanying Symptoms: If you experience additional symptoms such as fever, vomiting, dizziness, or fainting, these could indicate a more serious condition that requires urgent care.

Possible Causes of Your Symptoms
Several potential causes could explain your symptoms:
- Hemorrhoids: Swollen blood vessels in the rectum can cause bright red blood on the stool or toilet paper.

- Anal Fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus can also lead to bleeding, often accompanied by pain during bowel movements.

- Gastrointestinal Infections: Bacterial or viral infections can cause inflammation and bleeding in the intestines.

- Diverticulitis: Inflammation or infection of small pouches that can form in the walls of the colon.

- Colorectal Polyps or Cancer: Abnormal growths in the colon can lead to bleeding and should be evaluated, especially if you have risk factors or a family history of colorectal cancer.

Next Steps
1. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Given your symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider as soon as possible. They may perform a physical examination, order blood tests, and possibly imaging studies or a colonoscopy to determine the cause of your symptoms.

2. Keep a Symptom Diary: Documenting your symptoms, including the frequency and nature of your abdominal pain and the characteristics of the blood in your stool, can provide valuable information to your healthcare provider.

3. Avoid Self-Medication: While it may be tempting to take over-the-counter medications for pain relief, it is best to avoid them until you have been evaluated by a healthcare professional, as some medications can mask symptoms or worsen certain conditions.

In summary, the combination of abdominal pain and blood in your stool is a medical concern that should not be ignored. Seeking prompt medical attention is essential to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

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