Rectal Bleeding: Causes and Concerns for Your Health

Q: Rectal Bleeding: Causes and Concerns for Your Health

Hello： You are experiencing pain in the buttocks and blood in the toilet during bowel movements, although there is no blood on the stool itself. <br>Common causes of rectal bleeding include anal fissures, hemorrhoids, and inflammation. <br>Eating spicy foods and having difficulty

Sometimes there is blood in the stool?

Hello, doctor.
I am someone who has a bowel movement every day, with a regular physiological clock that prompts me to go in the morning.
Usually, my stools don't have much odor.
In high school, I experienced constipation once, and after eating spicy food, I had blood in my stool.
I went to see a doctor, who diagnosed me with an anal fissure.
Typically, I don't have bleeding unless I feel pain in my rectum.
However, sometimes I experience slight pain or feel discomfort in a specific area, and that can lead to bleeding.
The color of my stool varies; sometimes it's yellow, other times it's a bit dark brown.
Occasionally, I feel some pain in my right abdomen.
My flatulence usually doesn't have much odor.
I'm concerned about the reasons behind this, as I'm afraid of developing colon cancer.
Sometimes I feel pain in my rectum, and there is fresh blood, while other times it seems like just a small amount of blood from a skin tear.
Today, I felt some pain in my rectum and noticed blood in the toilet, but there was none on the stool itself; however, when I wiped, it was fresh blood.
What could be the reason for this?

Yang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/12/03

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: You are experiencing pain in the buttocks and blood in the toilet during bowel movements, although there is no blood on the stool itself.
Common causes of rectal bleeding include anal fissures, hemorrhoids, and inflammation.
Eating spicy foods and having difficulty with bowel movements can trigger these issues.
In severe cases, this may lead to anemia.
If symptoms persist or recur, it is recommended to consult a colorectal specialist or a gastroenterologist for examination and treatment.
Colorectal cancer is associated with factors such as genetics, heredity, polyps, diet, obesity, and certain diseases (like inflammatory bowel disease).
If you are very concerned about colorectal cancer, it is important to develop good lifestyle habits! Limit the intake of greasy and irritating foods, maintain adequate hydration and exercise, and establish regular bowel habits.
Frequent rectal bleeding, even from hemorrhoids or severe anal fissures, can lead to anemia, pain, and inflammation.
It is advisable to seek examination and follow-up treatment from a colorectal specialist or gastroenterologist.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Ming-Hui Lin, Gastroenterology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2018/12/03

More Info

Rectal bleeding can be a concerning symptom and should not be ignored. It can arise from various causes, and understanding these can help in addressing the issue effectively. Based on the symptoms you've described, let's explore potential causes and what steps you can take.

Common Causes of Rectal Bleeding
1. Hemorrhoids: One of the most common causes of rectal bleeding, especially if the blood is bright red and appears on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl. Hemorrhoids can be internal or external and are often associated with straining during bowel movements, constipation, or prolonged sitting.

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 during bowel movements and may result in bleeding, which is typically bright red.

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

4. Colorectal Polyps or Cancer: While less common, polyps can bleed and may be precursors to colorectal cancer. Symptoms may include changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, or persistent abdominal discomfort.

5. Gastrointestinal Infections: Infections can cause inflammation and bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, often accompanied by diarrhea, fever, or abdominal pain.

6. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can lead to rectal bleeding, along with other symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.

Concerns and Recommendations
Given your history of rectal bleeding, especially after experiencing constipation and pain, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Seek Medical Attention: Since you have experienced recurrent bleeding, it is essential to see a gastroenterologist or a colorectal specialist. They may recommend a colonoscopy to visualize the colon and identify any abnormalities.

2. Dietary Changes: Increasing your intake of fiber-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) and staying hydrated can help prevent constipation and reduce the strain during bowel movements. This may alleviate symptoms related to hemorrhoids and anal fissures.

3. Avoid Straining: When using the bathroom, try to relax and avoid straining. If you feel the urge to go, do so promptly rather than waiting, as this can lead to harder stools.

4. Pain Management: If you experience pain, over-the-counter pain relievers may help, but consult your doctor before taking any medication, especially if you have ongoing symptoms.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including the frequency and amount of bleeding, any associated pain, and changes in bowel habits. This information will be valuable for your healthcare provider.

6. Regular Check-ups: If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or other gastrointestinal issues, regular screenings are essential, even if you are young.

Conclusion
While rectal bleeding can often be attributed to benign causes like hemorrhoids or anal fissures, it is vital to rule out more serious conditions. Your symptoms warrant a comprehensive evaluation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Remember, early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes, so do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

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