Bowel Issues: When to Seek Medical Attention for Blood in Stool

Bowel issues

I experienced rectal bleeding during a bowel movement, which made me very anxious, so I went to the hospital and underwent a colonoscopy that examined approximately 65 centimeters of my colon, but that was two years ago.
This year, I've been experiencing continuous flatulence, and I had two episodes of bloody stools.
The first time, I had no abdominal pain and my bowel movement was normal, but I noticed blood in the toilet.
The second time, I had significant abdominal pain and when I rushed to the bathroom, I found mucus mixed with blood, although it wasn't a large amount.
Given that this has been going on for three years, should I return for a follow-up appointment and possibly undergo another colonoscopy?

Mr. Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/11

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Please visit a colorectal surgeon.
If necessary, a colon X-ray or colonoscopy may be performed.

Reply Date: 2017/08/11

More Info

When it comes to bowel issues, particularly the presence of blood in the stool, it is essential to understand the potential underlying causes and the appropriate steps to take. Blood in the stool can be alarming and may indicate a variety of gastrointestinal conditions, ranging from benign to serious. Given your description of experiencing blood in your stool on two occasions—once without pain and once with abdominal pain and mucus—it's crucial to consider several factors.

Firstly, the presence of blood in the stool can be categorized into two types: bright red blood, which typically indicates bleeding from the lower gastrointestinal tract (such as the rectum or colon), and darker blood or black stools, which may suggest bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract (such as the stomach or small intestine). In your case, since you mentioned bright red blood and mucus, this could suggest a problem in the lower GI tract, possibly related to conditions such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, diverticulosis, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

The fact that you have a history of undergoing a colonoscopy two years ago is significant. Colonoscopies are a valuable diagnostic tool that allows physicians to visualize the interior of the colon and rectum, and they can identify polyps, tumors, and other abnormalities. However, if you are experiencing new symptoms, especially after two years, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider for a follow-up. Changes in bowel habits, the presence of blood, and abdominal pain warrant further investigation, even if your previous colonoscopy did not reveal any issues.

In your case, since you have experienced blood in your stool twice this year—once without pain and once with pain—it would be prudent to schedule a follow-up appointment with your gastroenterologist. They may recommend repeating a colonoscopy or conducting additional tests such as imaging studies or stool tests to rule out any serious conditions. It's also essential to discuss any other symptoms you may be experiencing, such as changes in appetite, weight loss, or changes in bowel habits, as these can provide valuable information for your healthcare provider.

Additionally, if you are experiencing abdominal pain, it is crucial to monitor the severity and duration of the pain. If the pain becomes severe or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or significant changes in bowel habits, you should seek immediate medical attention.

In summary, while the presence of blood in the stool can be due to various causes, it is essential to take it seriously, especially with your history and recent symptoms. A follow-up with your healthcare provider is warranted to ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly. Early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for gastrointestinal conditions. Remember, your health is paramount, and it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to symptoms like these.

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