Is Bright Red Blood in Stool Normal After Appendicitis Surgery?

Bright red blood in the stool?

On August 22, there was a rupture of the appendix leading to peritonitis.
The physician assessed that there was adhesion, and surgery could not be performed temporarily.
After suppressing the inflammation with antibiotics, there is currently no pain, and the antibiotics have been discontinued.
Waiting for surgery on October 7, I experienced some straining during bowel movements yesterday, and today I have had bright red blood in my stool twice.
Is this normal?

Axiang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/09/15

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery

Based on your description, the most likely cause of your bloody stool is inflammation and bleeding from hemorrhoids.
However, other serious gastrointestinal diseases are also possible.
If the condition persists without improvement, it is recommended that you visit a hospital's surgical or gastroenterology department for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2018/09/15

More Info

After undergoing appendicitis surgery, especially following a rupture and subsequent treatment for peritonitis, it is crucial to monitor any changes in your bowel movements, including the presence of bright red blood in your stool. Bright red blood can indicate several conditions, and while it may not always be a cause for alarm, it is essential to approach this symptom with caution.

In your case, since you mentioned that you had a ruptured appendix and were treated with antibiotics before your surgery, the presence of bright red blood in your stool could be attributed to a few factors. First, straining during bowel movements, as you indicated you did, can lead to the rupture of small blood vessels in the rectal area, resulting in bright red blood. This is often referred to as hemorrhoidal bleeding and is generally not serious, especially if the bleeding is minimal and resolves quickly.

However, given your medical history of appendicitis and peritonitis, it is essential to rule out other potential causes of rectal bleeding. These could include:
1. Hemorrhoids: Swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus can cause bright red blood, especially after straining.

2. Anal fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus can occur due to hard stools or straining, leading to bleeding.

3. Diverticular disease: Although less common, diverticulosis can lead to bleeding, especially in individuals with a history of gastrointestinal issues.

4. Infection or inflammation: Given your recent surgery and history of abdominal issues, any ongoing inflammation or infection could potentially lead to bleeding.

It is also important to consider that while bright red blood can often be less concerning than darker blood, which indicates bleeding higher up in the gastrointestinal tract, any new or significant bleeding should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
In your situation, since you have had recent surgery and are experiencing this symptom, it is advisable to contact your surgeon or healthcare provider immediately. They may recommend an examination to ensure that there are no complications from your surgery, such as an infection or other gastrointestinal issues that could be causing the bleeding.

In summary, while bright red blood in the stool can sometimes be attributed to benign causes like hemorrhoids or anal fissures, given your recent medical history, it is essential to seek medical advice promptly. Your healthcare provider can perform the necessary evaluations to determine the cause of the bleeding and ensure that your recovery from appendicitis surgery continues smoothly. Always prioritize your health and do not hesitate to reach out for professional guidance when experiencing concerning symptoms.

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