Blood in Stool: When to Seek Medical Attention

Rectal bleeding

I typically have a bowel movement once a day, but recently I've experienced a sensation of incomplete evacuation and occasional constipation.
Usually, this happens when I have to exert extra effort.
Sometimes, I also feel itching or a stinging sensation around the anus, which usually resolves the next day.
I occasionally experience bloating or abdominal pain, but these symptoms tend to alleviate after a bowel movement.
I have noticed some minor skin irritation with bloodstains during wiping, but this has only happened once or twice and then resolved.
I habitually check the color of my stool after a bowel movement to ensure it's normal.
This time, after wiping, I noticed some fecal matter on the toilet paper along with a small amount (about 3mm) of blood-tinged mucus that resembled jelly, but the stool in the toilet appeared normal in quantity and consistency.
If I hadn't noticed the blood on the toilet paper, I would have likely overlooked it.
The day before, I had to hold it in due to work, and afterward, I was unable to have a bowel movement.
I underwent a health check-up in early June, which included a fecal occult blood test that came back normal.
I’ve read online that jelly-like mucus can be concerning, and I'm feeling a bit anxious about whether I should seek further evaluation.

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

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Based on your description, it seems more like the typical symptoms of an anal fissure, which include pain during bowel movements accompanied by slight bleeding.
The common causes are often constipation or diarrhea.
The fundamental treatment is to improve bowel habits, and warm sitz baths can also be beneficial.
You can purchase hemorrhoid suppositories over the counter for relief.
If symptoms persist without improvement, it is advisable to consult a physician.
The term "currant jelly stools" specifically refers to symptoms associated with intussusception.
If there is no abdominal pain, reducing anxiety and shortening the time between bowel movements should help.

Reply Date: 2017/07/20

More Info

When it comes to blood in stool, it is essential to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical attention. Based on your description, it seems you have experienced some concerning symptoms, including a feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation, occasional constipation, anal itching or pain, and the presence of blood-tinged mucus on toilet paper after wiping.
Firstly, it's important to note that the presence of blood in stool can arise from various sources, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, diverticular disease, or more serious conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or colorectal cancer. Given that you have experienced some discomfort and the presence of blood, it is advisable to take these symptoms seriously.

When to Seek Medical Attention
1. Persistent Symptoms: If you continue to experience blood in your stool, even if it is a small amount, or if the symptoms persist over several days, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider.
2. Changes in Bowel Habits: Any significant changes in your bowel habits, such as increased constipation, diarrhea, or changes in the consistency of your stool, warrant a medical evaluation.

3. Associated Symptoms: If you experience additional symptoms such as abdominal pain, weight loss, fever, or fatigue, these could indicate a more serious condition that requires immediate attention.

4. Severity of Blood: While small amounts of blood may be due to minor issues like hemorrhoids, larger amounts or blood that appears to be mixed with stool can indicate a more severe problem.

5. Family History: If you have a family history of gastrointestinal diseases, including colorectal cancer, it is advisable to be more vigilant and seek medical advice sooner.

Possible Causes of Your Symptoms
- Hemorrhoids: These are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus that can cause bleeding, especially during bowel movements. They can also lead to itching and discomfort.

- Anal Fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus can occur due to straining during bowel movements, leading to pain and bleeding.

- Diverticulitis: This condition occurs when small pouches in the colon become inflamed or infected, which can cause abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits.

- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and blood in the stool.

- Colorectal Cancer: While less common, especially in younger individuals, it is still a possibility that should be ruled out, particularly if there are changes in bowel habits or unexplained weight loss.

Recommendations
- Consult a Healthcare Provider: Given your symptoms, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider. They may recommend a physical examination, a digital rectal exam, or further diagnostic tests such as a colonoscopy or imaging studies to determine the cause of your symptoms.

- Keep a Symptom Diary: Documenting your symptoms, including the frequency of blood in your stool, any associated pain, and changes in bowel habits, can provide valuable information to your healthcare provider.

- Dietary Adjustments: Increasing fiber intake and staying hydrated can help alleviate constipation and may reduce straining during bowel movements, which can help prevent hemorrhoids and fissures.

In summary, while some causes of blood in stool can be benign, it is essential to take any occurrence seriously and seek medical attention, especially if symptoms persist or worsen. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and address any underlying conditions effectively.

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