Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help

Rectal bleeding

Recently, my stools have been hard and pellet-like.
I'm not sure why, but this morning they were also in small pieces, and there was blood.
Could this be caused by straining during bowel movements?

bi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/06/30

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, shorten the time spent on bowel movements, and increase the intake of dietary fiber, which can be helpful.
Warm sitz baths may also help alleviate symptoms.
You can purchase hemorrhoid suppositories at the pharmacy, but it is best not to take stool softeners indiscriminately.
If bleeding persists, it is advisable to consult a physician for evaluation.
If necessary, a colonoscopy can also be arranged.

Reply Date: 2018/06/30

More Info

Blood in stool can be concerning and may indicate various underlying conditions. When you notice blood in your stool, it is essential to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical attention.

Possible Causes of Blood in Stool
1. Hemorrhoids: One of the most common causes of blood in stool is hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus. They can cause bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the stool, especially after straining during bowel movements.

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: Diverticulosis occurs when small pouches form in the walls of the colon. If these pouches become inflamed or infected (diverticulitis), they can cause bleeding.

4. Gastrointestinal Infections: Infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites can lead to inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in bloody diarrhea.

5. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract, leading to blood in the stool.

6. Polyps or Colorectal Cancer: Polyps are growths on the lining of the colon or rectum that can bleed. Some polyps can develop into cancer, which can also present with blood in the stool.

7. Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Conditions such as peptic ulcers or esophageal varices can lead to bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract, which may result in dark, tarry stools.

When to Seek Medical Help
You should seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent Blood: If you notice blood in your stool consistently over several days.

- Large Amounts of Blood: If you see a significant amount of blood, especially if it is bright red.

- Accompanying Symptoms: If you have other symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, fever, dizziness, or weakness.

- Changes in Bowel Habits: If you experience a sudden change in your bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, along with blood in the stool.

- Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss in conjunction with blood in the stool can be a sign of a more serious condition.

Conclusion
While occasional blood in the stool can be due to minor issues like hemorrhoids or anal fissures, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If you are experiencing blood in your stool, especially if it is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes, especially for conditions like IBD or colorectal cancer.
In summary, do not ignore blood in your stool, and seek medical advice to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

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