Dark Red Blood in Stool: Is It a Sign of Colon Cancer?

Dark red blood in the stool?

Doctor, I am a truck driver who doesn't drink much water but loves unsweetened coffee.
I consume sweet beverages and smoke regularly.
I usually stay up late, going to bed around 2-3 AM and waking up at 8 AM for work.
I often eat out and rarely eat fruits.
About a month ago, I noticed blood in my stool; it was bright red when I wiped, but it stopped after a few times.
My stools have been loose, but I haven't experienced any abdominal pain or anal pain.
Since then, I haven't had any bleeding.
However, about a month later, I had another episode of loose stools without abdominal or anal pain.
When I looked in the toilet, I noticed that the blood appeared at the end of the stool, which was dark red and somewhat sticky.
I'm unsure if the consistency of the stool, which was about the size of a 50 NT dollar coin, contributed to the bleeding.
I also noticed blood when wiping a few times, but it stopped.
Doctor, could this be a sign of colorectal cancer?

huòchē sījī, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/11/29

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, sir.
Blood in your stool is mostly caused by blood vessels near the anus, commonly known as hemorrhoids, so there is no need to worry too much.
However, based on your lifestyle habits, there may be a risk of colorectal polyps, so it is advisable to visit a gastroenterology clinic for a colonoscopy.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shidian.

Reply Date: 2016/11/29

More Info

When it comes to the presence of dark red blood in your stool, it's understandable to be concerned about the possibility of colon cancer. However, it's important to consider several factors before jumping to conclusions. Based on your description, there are a few key points to address.

Firstly, the presence of blood in the stool can arise from various causes, and not all of them are indicative of cancer. In many cases, blood in the stool can be attributed to benign conditions such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or even gastrointestinal irritation due to dietary choices. Given your lifestyle, including a diet low in fruits and vegetables and high in processed foods, it's possible that constipation and hard stools could lead to minor tears in the anal region, resulting in bleeding.

The fact that you mentioned experiencing fresh blood on the toilet paper and that it stopped after a few wipes suggests that the bleeding might be localized to the anal area rather than originating from higher up in the gastrointestinal tract. This is often the case with hemorrhoids or fissures, which can cause bright red blood due to the trauma of passing hard stools.

Regarding the dark red, somewhat sticky appearance of your stool, this could be due to a variety of factors, including the consistency of the stool itself. If the stool is particularly hard or formed, it can sometimes lead to minor bleeding as it passes through the anal canal. Additionally, certain foods and beverages can affect stool color. For instance, consuming foods high in certain pigments or even medications can alter the appearance of your stool.

It's also worth noting that while you have a family history of colon cancer, which can increase your risk, the absence of other symptoms such as significant abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss is reassuring. Colon cancer typically presents with more persistent symptoms, and the bleeding is often more pronounced and consistent.

Given your lifestyle factors—such as smoking, irregular sleep patterns, and a diet low in fiber—these could contribute to gastrointestinal issues. Increasing your water intake, incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your diet, and reducing processed foods can help improve your overall gut health and potentially reduce the incidence of bleeding.

However, it is crucial to take your symptoms seriously. Since you have experienced blood in your stool on more than one occasion, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend a stool test for occult blood or even a colonoscopy, especially considering your family history. These tests can help rule out any serious conditions and provide peace of mind.

In summary, while the presence of dark red blood in your stool can be alarming, it does not automatically indicate colon cancer. The most likely causes are benign, especially given the context of your symptoms. Nevertheless, seeking medical advice is essential to ensure that any underlying issues are addressed appropriately. Regular check-ups and screenings are vital, particularly for individuals with risk factors for colorectal diseases.

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