Rectal Bleeding: Is It Hemorrhoids or Something More Serious?

Q: Rectal Bleeding: Is It Hemorrhoids or Something More Serious?

Hello： Blood in the stool is an abnormal symptom that can range from common hemorrhoids to other serious gastrointestinal diseases. <br>Based on your description, the likelihood of hemorrhoidal bleeding is the highest. <br>It is recommended that you visit a hospital's surgical or

Rectal bleeding

Hello, doctor.
I have a bowel movement approximately every 2 to 3 days.
If I go more than a few days without a bowel movement, I use an enema.
Each time I go to the bathroom, it takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Over the past two months, after using the restroom, I've noticed a small amount of bright red blood on the toilet paper/wet wipes, which usually stops after two or three wipes.
There is a slight irritation around the anal area when using wet wipes.
The stool color is generally a normal light brown.
On the night of December 2nd, after using the restroom, there was a significant amount of bright red blood on the toilet paper/wet wipes, but the stool color remained normal.
After several wipes, there was still fresh blood.
On the morning of December 3rd, when I used the toilet, the water in the bowl was tinged with blood, and the wiping situation was the same as the previous night.
Therefore, I looked in the mirror and noticed a wound about 1 cm inside the anal opening.
Wiping with a wet wipe resulted in fresh blood and a slight irritation.
Could this be hemorrhoids or colon cancer?

Kudu man, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/12/03

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery

Hello: Blood in the stool is an abnormal symptom that can range from common hemorrhoids to other serious gastrointestinal diseases.
Based on your description, the likelihood of hemorrhoidal bleeding is the highest.
It is recommended that you visit a hospital's surgical or gastroenterology department for further examination.

Reply Date: 2016/12/03

More Info

Understanding rectal bleeding can be concerning, especially when it presents with symptoms such as fresh blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl. Your description indicates that you have experienced intermittent rectal bleeding, which has escalated to a more significant amount of blood in the toilet water. Given your symptoms, it is essential to consider a few potential causes, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and more serious conditions like colorectal cancer.

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus that can cause bleeding during bowel movements. They are often associated with straining during defecation, constipation, or prolonged sitting on the toilet. The blood from hemorrhoids is typically bright red and may be seen on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl. The presence of slight irritation or discomfort in the anal area, as you described, can also be a symptom of hemorrhoids.

Anal fissures 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 also cause bleeding. The blood from an anal fissure is usually bright red and can be seen on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl, similar to hemorrhoids.

While hemorrhoids and anal fissures are common causes of rectal bleeding, it is crucial to rule out more serious conditions, such as colorectal cancer. Although your symptoms may suggest hemorrhoids or fissures, the presence of significant bleeding, especially if it is new or has changed in character, warrants further investigation. Colorectal cancer can present with rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, or abdominal discomfort.

Given your situation, here are some recommendations:
1. Consult a Healthcare Professional: It is essential to see a doctor, preferably a gastroenterologist or a colorectal specialist. They can perform a thorough examination, which may include a digital rectal exam, anoscopy, or colonoscopy, to determine the exact cause of your bleeding.

2. Keep a Symptom Diary: Document your bowel habits, the frequency and amount of bleeding, any associated pain, and dietary habits. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider.

3. Dietary Adjustments: Ensure you are consuming a high-fiber diet, which can help prevent constipation and reduce straining during bowel movements. Staying well-hydrated is also crucial.

4. Avoid Straining: If you find yourself straining during bowel movements, consider using stool softeners or fiber supplements to ease the process.

5. Monitor Symptoms: If you experience any additional symptoms such as significant weight loss, changes in bowel habits, or severe abdominal pain, seek medical attention promptly.

In conclusion, while hemorrhoids and anal fissures are common causes of rectal bleeding, the presence of significant blood in your stool or on toilet paper should not be ignored. It is vital to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any serious conditions and to receive appropriate treatment based on the underlying cause of your symptoms. Early diagnosis and intervention can lead to better outcomes and peace of mind.

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