Blood in Stool: Is It Hemorrhoids or Something More Serious?

Rectal bleeding

Hello Doctor, a few days ago I had diarrhea and went to the bathroom 5 to 6 times in one day.
Around the third time, I started noticing bright red blood.
The next day, I went to see a doctor who diagnosed me with gastroenteritis.
After taking medication, I stopped having diarrhea, and my bowel movements returned to normal, about once or twice a day.
However, for the past few days, there has still been blood in my stool.
I notice it on the toilet paper when I wipe, and it seems mixed in with the stool in the toilet, but the amount isn't much.
The blood appears darker in color, but today there was a lot of blood, making the entire toilet bright red, and the toilet paper was also bloodied.
Additionally, I have previously felt my anus, and sometimes after a bowel movement, I can feel a soft lump.
Could this be hemorrhoids? However, when I can feel it, there isn't always blood in my stool.
Is this bleeding from hemorrhoids, or could it possibly be colon cancer? Thank you, Doctor!

Ian, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/07

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.
Although the risk of developing colorectal cancer at the age of 23 is not zero, it is generally very low.
Based on your description, it seems more like hemorrhoids.
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 or to undergo a colonoscopy.

Reply Date: 2017/04/07

More Info

When it comes to understanding blood in stool, it is essential to differentiate between benign conditions like hemorrhoids and more serious issues such as colorectal cancer. The presence of blood in the stool can be alarming, and it is crucial to assess the situation carefully.

Based on your description, you experienced diarrhea followed by the appearance of bright red blood in your stool. Initially, this could suggest a few possibilities, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or even gastrointestinal infections. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus that can bleed, especially during bowel movements. They often present with bright red blood on the toilet paper or mixed with stool, which aligns with your observations.

However, the fact that you mentioned the blood has changed in color and quantity, with some instances being dark and others being bright red, raises some concerns. Darker blood can indicate bleeding from higher up in the gastrointestinal tract, while bright red blood typically suggests bleeding from the lower gastrointestinal tract, such as the rectum or anus.

Given that you have also felt soft tissue when examining your anus, this could indeed be indicative of hemorrhoids. However, the presence of significant blood, especially if it fills the toilet bowl, warrants further investigation. While hemorrhoids are common and often benign, the possibility of more serious conditions, including colorectal cancer, cannot be dismissed, especially if you have risk factors such as a family history of colorectal cancer, changes in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss.

In your case, since you have already consulted a doctor who diagnosed you with gastroenteritis, it is essential to follow up on the ongoing presence of blood in your stool. Even if your diarrhea has resolved, the continued presence of blood is concerning. I recommend that you return to your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They may suggest a colonoscopy, which is a procedure that allows direct visualization of the colon and rectum, and can help identify any abnormalities such as polyps, fissures, or tumors.

In summary, while hemorrhoids are a common cause of rectal bleeding, the presence of blood in your stool, especially if it is significant or persistent, should not be ignored. It is crucial to seek further medical evaluation to rule out more serious conditions, including colorectal cancer. Early detection and intervention are key to managing any potential health issues effectively. Please ensure that you communicate all your symptoms clearly to your healthcare provider, and do not hesitate to seek a second opinion if you feel it is necessary. Your health and peace of mind are paramount.

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