Rectal Bleeding: Is It Hemorrhoids or Anal Fissures?

Q: Rectal Bleeding: Is It Hemorrhoids or Anal Fissures?

Hello： If you experience blood in your stool without pain in the anus, it is often indicative of internal hemorrhoid bleeding. <br>However, it is advisable to visit a gastroenterology clinic for a check-up. <br>Changhua Hospital cares about your health. <br>Chen Shidian.

Anal issues

Hello doctor, a few months ago I noticed a small amount of blood when wiping after using the toilet.
At that time, I was preparing for college entrance exams, so I didn't pay much attention to it.
Since then, I've experienced this situation two or three more times, and this week there was more blood than before when I wiped, although the amount is still small and there is no blood in my stool.
Could this condition be hemorrhoids or an anal fissure? If so, can it heal on its own?

Dai Dai, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/08/10

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: If you experience blood in your stool without pain in the anus, it is often indicative of internal hemorrhoid bleeding.
However, it is advisable to visit a gastroenterology clinic for a check-up.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shidian.

Reply Date: 2018/08/10

More Info

Rectal bleeding can be concerning, and it's important to understand the potential causes and implications. Based on your description, the presence of blood when wiping after a bowel movement could indeed be indicative of either hemorrhoids or anal fissures, both of which are common conditions.

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus. They can be internal or external. Internal hemorrhoids are usually not visible and may cause bleeding during bowel movements, which is often bright red. External hemorrhoids can be painful and may cause discomfort, especially if a blood clot forms. Symptoms can include itching, discomfort, and bleeding.

Anal fissures, on the other hand, are small tears in the lining of the anus, often caused by passing hard stools or straining during bowel movements. They can lead to sharp pain during and after bowel movements, and may also cause bleeding, typically bright red in color. The pain associated with fissures can be quite severe, and they may take longer to heal if not managed properly.

Given that you have experienced this bleeding multiple times, it is advisable to consider a few factors:
1. Symptoms: If you are experiencing pain during bowel movements, it may lean more towards an anal fissure. If there is no pain but only bleeding, hemorrhoids might be more likely.

2. Stool Consistency: Hard stools can exacerbate both conditions. Ensuring a diet high in fiber, staying hydrated, and possibly using stool softeners can help prevent further irritation.

3. Self-Care: Both conditions can often improve with conservative management. This includes dietary changes, warm baths (sitz baths), and over-the-counter topical treatments for hemorrhoids. For fissures, applying topical anesthetics or healing ointments may provide relief.

4. Healing Time: Many mild cases of hemorrhoids and anal fissures can heal on their own with proper care. However, if symptoms persist for more than a week or worsen, it is crucial to seek medical attention.

5. Medical Evaluation: While self-care is often effective, a healthcare provider can offer a definitive diagnosis through a physical examination. They may also perform a digital rectal exam or anoscopy if necessary. This is important to rule out other potential causes of rectal bleeding, such as polyps or more serious conditions.

In summary, while it is possible that your symptoms are due to hemorrhoids or anal fissures, a proper evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other potential issues. If you notice any significant changes in your symptoms, such as increased bleeding, pain, or changes in bowel habits, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and prevent complications.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Recently, I have been experiencing bleeding from both my anus and rectum, regardless of whether it's a bowel movement or not. The blood is dark red and there are also small blood clots. I am also prone to diarrhea. Thank you for your response, doctor.

Dr. He Zhenming reply Surgery
It is most likely that the anal fissure is caused by hemorrhoids. Please see a colorectal clinic. He Zhenming.

Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Is It Hemorrhoids or Anal Fissures?

Hello, doctor. I have a question. I originally had hemorrhoids and every time I have a bowel movement, I need to use my finger to push the hemorrhoids back in. Recently, I have been experiencing rectal bleeding for a month. The blood does not fill the toilet; it only appears as a...

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery
If there is no pain and bowel movements do not require much effort, it is less likely to be an anal fissure and more indicative of symptoms related to internal hemorrhoids. It is recommended to drink plenty of water during the episode, maintain a light diet, and take warm sitz ba...

Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Hemorrhoids or Anal Fissures?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask about a situation I've been experiencing for about a week. After having a bowel movement, I sometimes notice blood dripping from my anus, but usually, it stops as soon as I leave the toilet. I've also observed that sometimes just sittin...

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery
Anal fissures are typically associated with pain during or after bowel movements; internal hemorrhoids may cause more significant bleeding but are not necessarily painful. During the acute phase, it is advisable to take warm sitz baths, reduce the time spent in the bathroom, avoi...

Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Hemorrhoids or Anal Fissures?

I had a colonoscopy about two years ago, but it only examined around 60 cm and there were no significant issues found, except for mild internal hemorrhoids. Last year, I had an anal examination, which also indicated the presence of internal hemorrhoids. Recently, I noticed that i...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
Based on your description, it seems likely that you are experiencing an anal fissure combined with hemorrhoidal bleeding. Common symptoms include pain during bowel movements accompanied by slight bleeding, often following a history of constipation or diarrhea. Treatment primarily...