Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help

There is a large amount of blood in the stool?

Hello doctor, previously when I used the restroom, there were sometimes blood stains on the toilet paper after wiping, but since it didn't happen again, I didn't pay much attention to it.
However, it has been occurring intermittently.
I didn't keep track of the intervals, but today I experienced abdominal pain while using the toilet.
I felt pain when I pushed, and it took 3 to 4 attempts to have a bowel movement.
The stool was dark black and thicker at first, but later it became lighter in color, resembling a pale clay color, and there were blood streaks on one side.
If I had a small bowel movement, it would be completely blood.
The first time I wiped, there was a lot of blood on the toilet paper, but by the second wipe, there was less blood, and by the third wipe, there was nothing.
I would like to know if this is an anal fissure, hemorrhoids, or even rectal cancer? I don't want my youth to end like this; I want to continue living.
Thank you, doctor, for your response.

Huang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/11/16

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 and use stool softeners, but it is best not to take medications indiscriminately at this age.
Increasing the intake of dietary fiber and fluids should be sufficient.
Although the risk of developing colorectal cancer at the age of 19 is not zero, it is generally very low.
It is advisable to maintain a light diet and a good lifestyle routine, avoiding spicy, irritating, and greasy foods.
If symptoms persist without improvement, you may consult a physician for medication.
If there is still no improvement or if there are significant concerns, a colonoscopy can be arranged.

Reply Date: 2016/11/16

More Info

Understanding blood in stool can be a concerning issue, and it’s important to approach it with care and awareness of potential underlying conditions. Based on your description, there are several possible causes for the symptoms you are experiencing, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, diverticular disease, or even more serious conditions such as colorectal cancer.

Possible Causes of Blood in Stool
1. Hemorrhoids: These are swollen blood vessels in the rectal area that can cause bleeding during bowel movements. The blood is typically bright red and may appear on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl. Hemorrhoids are common and can be exacerbated by straining during bowel movements, which could explain the pain you felt.

2. Anal Fissures: These are small tears in the lining of the anus, often caused by passing hard stools. They can lead to sharp pain during bowel movements and may cause bleeding, which is usually bright red. The pain you described, especially when straining, could indicate a fissure.

3. Diverticular Disease: This condition involves the formation of small pouches in the colon wall, which can become inflamed or infected, leading to diverticulitis. This can cause abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits, including blood in the stool.

4. Colorectal Cancer: While less common, blood in the stool can be a symptom of colorectal cancer, especially if accompanied by other symptoms such as significant changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, or persistent abdominal discomfort. The dark color of your stool could indicate bleeding from higher up in the gastrointestinal tract.

When to Seek Help
Given the symptoms you have described, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Here are some guidelines on when to see a healthcare provider:
- Persistent Symptoms: If you continue to see blood in your stool, especially if it is accompanied by pain, changes in bowel habits, or any other concerning symptoms, you should consult a doctor.

- Severe Pain: If the abdominal pain becomes severe or is accompanied by fever, vomiting, or significant changes in your overall health, seek immediate medical care.

- Changes in Stool Color: Dark or tarry stools can indicate bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract, which requires urgent evaluation.

Diagnostic Steps
When you visit a healthcare provider, they may perform several diagnostic tests, including:
- Physical Examination: A thorough examination, including a digital rectal exam, to check for hemorrhoids or fissures.

- Blood Tests: To assess for anemia or infection.

- Stool Tests: To check for the presence of blood or pathogens.

- Imaging Studies: Such as a colonoscopy, which allows direct visualization of the colon and rectum to identify any abnormalities.

Conclusion
While conditions like hemorrhoids and anal fissures are common and often treatable, it is essential not to dismiss the presence of blood in your stool. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing any potential health issues effectively. Please do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and addressing these symptoms early can lead to better outcomes.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help

Finding blood in your stool, especially if it is not bright red, can be indicative of several potential issues. It may suggest the presence of conditions such as hemorrhoids, diverticular disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or even more serious conditions like colorectal c...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
If the stool is dark red, it does not necessarily indicate bleeding. To determine whether it is bleeding, a stool test is required. At the age of 23, it is mostly likely hemorrhoidal bleeding. As long as there is no further bleeding, it should not be a concern. It is recommended ...

Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello, doctor. I am a 19-year-old college student. Recently, I have been experiencing blood in my stool frequently, sometimes a lot, resembling urine in flow, and at other times just a small amount on the toilet paper. Sometimes I see blood during bowel movements, and sometimes I...

Dr. Su Baojia reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
If there is blood in the stool and significant bleeding, it is important to see a gastroenterologist for an examination as soon as possible. The causes may include hemorrhoids, colorectal cancer, or colonic ulcers, among others, and should not be taken lightly. Otherwise, it coul...

Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello doctor, I have a question. Today when I went to the bathroom, there was no blood in my stool, but after straining a bit, I noticed fresh red blood on the edge of the stool. The first time I wiped, there was blood, but the second time there was none. I had a stool test done ...

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, it is advisable to investigate the cause of blood in the stool in order to provide appropriate treatment. Common causes of blood in the stool include anal fissures, hemorrhoids, rectal or colon polyps, tumors, or inflammation. It is recommended to increase fiber and fluid ...

Blood in Stool: What You Need to Know and Do

Dear Doctor, Yesterday, I noticed blood in my stool and also found blood on the toilet paper after wiping. Could you please advise me on how to proceed? I would be very grateful.

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the presence of blood in the stool may be caused by hemorrhoids, anal fissures, inflammatory bowel disease, tumors, polyps, or diverticular bleeding, with hemorrhoidal bleeding being the most common. It is advisable to consume more fruits, vegetables, and fluids to maintai...