Fresh Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns

Blood in stool

In the past week, I have been experiencing bright red blood in my stool.
Sometimes, when I pass gas, there is blood dripping, and there is a lot of blood on the toilet paper when I wipe.
I have hemorrhoids, but there is no pain associated with it.
Wiping does not cause any discomfort, so I am unsure if there is an issue with my gastrointestinal tract.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/09/22

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 the toilet.
Warm sitz baths may help alleviate symptoms.
You can also purchase hemorrhoid suppositories at the pharmacy and use stool softeners, but it is best not to take any medications indiscriminately.
If bleeding persists, it is advisable to consult a physician.
If necessary, a colonoscopy can also be arranged.

Reply Date: 2017/09/22

More Info

Fresh blood in stool can be a concerning symptom, and it is essential to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical attention. The presence of bright red blood in stool, especially if it occurs consistently over a week, should not be ignored. Here are some possible causes and considerations regarding your situation.

Possible Causes of Fresh Blood in Stool
1. Hemorrhoids: Given that you mentioned having hemorrhoids, this is one of the most common causes of bright red blood in the stool. Hemorrhoids can bleed, especially during bowel movements, and may not always be painful. The blood is usually bright red, indicating that it is fresh and likely comes from the lower gastrointestinal tract.

2. Anal Fissures: These are small tears in the lining of the anus, often caused by passing hard stools. Like hemorrhoids, they can cause bright red blood, but they are typically associated with pain during bowel movements.

3. Diverticular Disease: Diverticulosis, which involves the formation of small pouches in the colon, can lead to diverticulitis, where these pouches become inflamed or infected. This condition can also cause bleeding.

4. Colorectal Polyps or Cancer: While less common, polyps (which can be benign or precancerous) and colorectal cancer can cause bleeding. The blood may appear bright red or dark, depending on where the bleeding originates in the gastrointestinal tract.

5. Gastrointestinal Infections: Certain infections can cause inflammation and bleeding in the intestines, leading to blood in the stool.

6. Other Conditions: Conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, can also lead to bleeding.

When to Seek Medical Attention
Given that you have been experiencing this symptom for a week, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Significant amounts of blood in your stool
- Blood that is dark or tarry (indicating it may be coming from higher up in the gastrointestinal tract)
- Severe abdominal pain
- Changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhea or constipation)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Symptoms of anemia (such as fatigue, weakness, or dizziness)

Recommended Actions
1. Consult a Specialist: It would be best to see a gastroenterologist, a specialist in digestive system disorders. They can perform necessary examinations, such as a colonoscopy, to determine the cause of the bleeding.

2. Keep a Record: Document your symptoms, including the frequency and amount of blood, any associated symptoms (like pain or changes in bowel habits), and any dietary changes. This information can help your doctor make a more accurate diagnosis.

3. Avoid Self-Diagnosis: While hemorrhoids may seem like a likely cause, it is essential not to self-diagnose. Other serious conditions can present similarly, and only a healthcare professional can provide a definitive diagnosis.

Conclusion
In summary, while hemorrhoids are a common cause of fresh blood in the stool, it is crucial to rule out other potential causes, especially if the symptom persists. Seeking medical advice promptly can help ensure that any serious conditions are identified and treated appropriately. Your health is paramount, and addressing these symptoms early can lead to better outcomes.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Fresh Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns

Hello, doctor. Recently, I've noticed fresh blood when I go to the bathroom. I had a period of diarrhea before, and I underwent a colonoscopy last year, which showed no issues except for a small polyp that was removed. However, my diarrhea persisted, and the doctor prescribe...

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery
If a colonoscopy has recently been performed, the likelihood of tumors or polyps is lower. If diarrhea is accompanied by mucus in the stool or blood in the stool, inflammatory bowel disease or ulcerative conditions should be considered. If the stool is hard, requires straining, a...

Understanding Fresh Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns

Doctor: Hello, in the past week, I have noticed blood in my stool during bowel movements. The blood is bright red, and the amount of bleeding is somewhat significant (the water in the toilet is light red). I am unsure of the cause and would appreciate your assistance in understan...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: You may visit the Department of Colorectal Surgery. Wishing you peace and health. Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Gastroenterology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Understanding Fresh Blood in Stool Despite Clean Colonoscopy Results

Hello Doctor: I had a colonoscopy in May of this year, during which small polyps were removed and my colon was clean with no lesions. However, recently I have been experiencing fresh blood in my stool. What could be the possible reasons for this? Besides issues related to the col...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
This condition should consider hemorrhoids or anal fissures; please consult a colorectal surgeon.

Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns in Gastroenterology

Hello Doctor, for the past three years, I have experienced blood in my stool approximately every two months. Before the occurrence of blood in my stool, I feel a dull ache and a sensation of fullness or swelling in the area of my kidneys in the back. The blood in my stool lasts f...

Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the presence of blood in the stool indicates gastrointestinal bleeding. If the person does not experience dizziness or signs of shock, it suggests that the bleeding is coming from the colon or rectum. Generally, bleeding from the colon results in dark red or bright red sto...