Blood During Wiping: Is It Hemorrhoids or Something Else?

Bleeding during wiping after a bowel movement?

Hello Dr.
Ke: As mentioned in the subject, I have experienced bleeding when wiping after using the restroom, but there was no pain during bowel movements.
The first time I wiped, I noticed bright red blood, and I also saw some dark red blood nearby.
The second time I wiped, there was no blood.
About four years ago, I had hemorrhoids and received treatment at that time, but there was no bleeding.
Since I am still a student, I spend nearly half of my day sitting.
Recently, I have not felt any pain in the anal area, but about a month ago, I experienced the same situation, and it has not occurred again.
I do not have any particular bad habits, but I am overweight and have high blood pressure.
Could you please advise if my condition is a recurrence of hemorrhoids or if it may be another symptom? Do I need to seek medical attention? Thank you for taking the time to respond amidst your busy schedule; I greatly appreciate it.

A Qiang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/28

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 help alleviate symptoms, and you can also purchase over-the-counter hemorrhoid suppositories.
It is best to avoid taking stool softeners indiscriminately.
If bleeding persists, it is advisable to consult a physician.
Although the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer at the age of 16 is not zero, it is generally very low.
Based on your description, it seems more like hemorrhoids.
It is recommended to maintain a light diet and a good lifestyle, avoiding spicy, irritating, and greasy foods.
If symptoms persist without improvement, you may want to ask a physician for medication or to undergo a colonoscopy.

Reply Date: 2017/04/28

More Info

When it comes to the presence of blood during wiping after a bowel movement, there are several potential causes to consider. Based on your description, it is possible that you are experiencing a recurrence of hemorrhoids, especially since you have a history of this condition. Hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus, can cause bright red blood to appear on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl, particularly after straining during bowel movements.
The fact that you noticed bright red blood during wiping but did not experience pain is consistent with hemorrhoids, as they can sometimes bleed without causing significant discomfort. The dark red blood you observed could indicate older blood, which might suggest that the bleeding is coming from a source higher up in the rectum or colon, but it is also possible that it is simply blood from the hemorrhoids that has mixed with stool or other materials.

Given that you mentioned a sedentary lifestyle due to being a student, this can contribute to the development or exacerbation of hemorrhoids. Prolonged sitting can increase pressure on the veins in the rectal area, leading to swelling and potential bleeding. Additionally, being overweight and having high blood pressure can also be risk factors for developing hemorrhoids.

While your symptoms may suggest a recurrence of hemorrhoids, it is important to consider other potential causes of rectal bleeding. These can include anal fissures, which are small tears in the lining of the anus that can occur due to passing hard stools, or more serious conditions such as diverticulosis, colorectal polyps, or even colorectal cancer, especially if there is a change in bowel habits or if the bleeding persists.

In your case, since you have experienced similar symptoms in the past and have a history of hemorrhoids, it may be reasonable to suspect that this is the cause. However, because you have also mentioned the presence of dark red blood and the fact that this is not the first occurrence, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend a physical examination, and possibly a colonoscopy, to rule out any other underlying conditions and to confirm the diagnosis.

In summary, while it is likely that your symptoms are related to hemorrhoids, especially given your history, it is essential to seek medical advice to ensure that there are no other serious issues at play. Early intervention can help manage symptoms effectively and prevent complications. Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fiber, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular physical activity can also help prevent future occurrences of hemorrhoids and promote overall digestive health.

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