Rectal Bleeding: Causes and When to Seek Help - Surgery

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Rectal bleeding can be concerning, and it's important to understand its potential causes and when to seek medical help. Based on your description, you noticed blood on toilet paper and in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement, which is a significant change from your usual experience. Here’s a comprehensive overview of possible causes, what to look out for, and when to seek medical attention.


Possible Causes of Rectal Bleeding
1. Hemorrhoids: One of the most common causes of rectal bleeding, hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus. They can cause bright red blood during bowel movements, especially if there is straining involved.

2. Anal Fissures: These are small tears in the lining of the anus, often caused by passing hard stools. They can lead to sharp pain and bleeding during bowel movements.

3. Diverticular Disease: This condition involves the formation of small pouches in the colon wall, which can become inflamed or infected, leading to bleeding.

4. Polyps: These are growths on the lining of the colon or rectum. While many polyps are benign, some can be precursors to colorectal cancer, and they can cause bleeding.

5. Colorectal Cancer: Although less common, rectal bleeding can be a sign of colorectal cancer, especially if accompanied by other symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, weight loss, or abdominal pain.

6. Gastrointestinal Infections: Certain infections can cause inflammation and bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to blood in the stool.

7. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation of the digestive tract, resulting in bleeding.


When to Seek Medical Help
Given that you have experienced a sudden change in your bowel habits with noticeable bleeding, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Here are specific scenarios when you should definitely consult a healthcare provider:
- Significant Bleeding: If you notice a large amount of blood, especially if it is dark or mixed with stool.

- Persistent Symptoms: If the bleeding continues over several days or is accompanied by other symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, or changes in bowel habits.

- Signs of Anemia: Symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, or dizziness could indicate significant blood loss.

- Family History: If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or other gastrointestinal diseases, it’s prudent to get evaluated sooner.


What to Expect at the Doctor’s Office
When you visit a healthcare provider, they will likely perform a thorough history and physical examination. They may recommend:
- Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): This can help assess for hemorrhoids or fissures.

- Colonoscopy: This is a procedure that allows the doctor to view the inside of your colon and rectum, which can help identify polyps, tumors, or sources of bleeding.

- Blood Tests: To check for anemia or other underlying conditions.


Conclusion
In summary, while rectal bleeding can be caused by various conditions, some of which are benign, it is crucial to take it seriously, especially when it is a new symptom for you. Given your situation, I recommend scheduling an appointment with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to determine the cause of the bleeding and to receive appropriate treatment. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes, especially if a more serious condition is involved.