Blood Clots in Stool: When to Seek Medical Attention

Blood clots in the stool?

Hello, doctor.
I have a constitution that easily leads to diarrhea.
For several years, I often experience diarrhea 3 to 4 days a week.
Recently, for about 3 to 4 months, I noticed that sometimes after eating spicy food, I would have diarrhea the next day and find 2mm-sized, chili-colored fragments in my stool.
Since they are not sticky when pressed and can move independently, I thought they were just remnants of chili.
Six days ago, I experienced severe watery diarrhea and noticed several drops of fresh blood and mucus.
This was followed by continuous fever for two and a half days, along with overall weakness and body aches.
However, in the following days, although my stool became softer, I could still find independent, elongated or oval-shaped fragments, about 3mm to 6mm in size, with a radish-like appearance, sometimes darker brown.
When pressed, they resemble bright red blood clots.
Could this indicate bleeding near the right side of the colon? Should I immediately get screened for colorectal cancer? Thank you.

Dai Tou, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/07

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Based on your description, it seems more like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
It is recommended to start with a light diet and maintain a good daily routine.
Spicy, irritating, and greasy foods should be avoided.
If symptoms persist without improvement, you may consult a physician for medication.
If necessary, a colonoscopy can also be arranged.

Reply Date: 2017/04/07

More Info

When it comes to the presence of blood in stool, especially in the context of your symptoms, it is crucial to approach the situation with caution and seek medical attention promptly. The symptoms you describe, including persistent diarrhea, the presence of blood and mucus, and significant fatigue, warrant a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional.

Firstly, the appearance of blood in your stool can be indicative of several underlying conditions, ranging from benign to serious. Given your history of frequent diarrhea and the recent episodes of bloody stools, it is essential to consider the possibility of gastrointestinal issues such as infections, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or even colorectal polyps or cancer, particularly if you are over the age of 50 or have a family history of colorectal cancer.

The fact that you have experienced a significant amount of blood, along with other symptoms like fever and body aches, suggests that there may be an inflammatory or infectious process at play. Conditions such as bacterial infections (e.g., from consuming contaminated food), IBD (such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis), or even diverticulitis could lead to similar symptoms. The color and consistency of the blood can provide clues; for instance, bright red blood often indicates bleeding from the lower gastrointestinal tract, while darker blood may suggest a source higher up in the digestive system.

It is also important to note that while spicy foods can irritate the gastrointestinal tract and lead to symptoms like diarrhea, they are unlikely to cause significant bleeding unless there is an underlying condition. The fact that you have noticed distinct pieces in your stool that resemble blood clots is concerning and should not be ignored.

In terms of next steps, I strongly recommend that you seek medical attention as soon as possible. A healthcare provider will likely perform a physical examination and may recommend diagnostic tests such as blood tests, stool tests, and imaging studies (like a CT scan) or a colonoscopy to visualize the colon and identify any abnormalities. A colonoscopy is particularly important if there is a suspicion of polyps or cancer, as it allows for direct visualization and potential biopsy of any suspicious lesions.

In summary, the presence of blood in your stool, especially in conjunction with other concerning symptoms, should be taken seriously. Do not delay in seeking medical evaluation, as early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes for many gastrointestinal conditions. Your health and well-being are paramount, and addressing these symptoms promptly is the best course of action.

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