Blood Stains on Stool: Causes and Concerns

There are blood stains on the surface of the stool?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask about the issue of blood in my stool.
On January 14th, I suddenly had a large amount of bright red blood in my stool.
As time passed, the bleeding stopped.
The following weeks were normal, but recently, upon closer inspection of my stool after bowel movements, I noticed some abnormalities.
Sometimes there are blood streaks at the front of the stool, and other times there are blood streaks at the end of the stool, as if it has been scratched.
These are short streaks, not dripping.
After bowel movements, I feel a slight stinging sensation around the anus.
When I touch the anal area, I do not feel any foreign objects.
Thank you, doctor, for your response.

Mr. Su, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/13

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Based on your description, it seems more like a typical case of anal fissure combined with hemorrhoidal bleeding.
The classic symptoms include pain during bowel movements accompanied by bleeding, often caused by constipation or diarrhea.
The fundamental treatment is to improve bowel habits, along with warm sitz baths.
Warm sitz baths can help alleviate pain, maintain cleanliness, and promote blood circulation.
You can also purchase hemorrhoidal suppositories over the counter.
If symptoms persist without improvement, it is advisable to consult a physician for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2020/02/13

More Info

Blood in the stool can be a concerning symptom and should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional. The presence of blood can indicate a variety of conditions, some of which may require immediate medical attention. Let's break down the potential causes and considerations regarding your symptoms.

Possible Causes of Blood in Stool
1. Hemorrhoids: One of the most common causes of blood in the stool, especially if the blood is bright red, is hemorrhoids. These are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus that can bleed during bowel movements, often accompanied by pain or discomfort.

2. Anal Fissures: These are small tears in the lining of the anus, often caused by passing hard stools. They can lead to bright red blood on the stool or toilet paper and may cause sharp pain during bowel movements.

3. Diverticular Disease: Diverticulosis, which involves the formation of small pouches in the colon wall, can lead to diverticulitis, where these pouches become inflamed or infected. This condition can cause bleeding, often presenting as bright red blood.

4. Polyps or Colorectal Cancer: Polyps are growths on the lining of the colon or rectum that can bleed. While many polyps are benign, some can develop into cancer over time. Colorectal cancer can also present with blood in the stool, often accompanied by changes in bowel habits or weight loss.

5. Gastrointestinal Infections: Certain infections can cause inflammation and bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to blood in the stool. This is often accompanied by other symptoms like diarrhea, fever, or abdominal pain.

6. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and blood in the stool.

When to Seek Medical Attention
Given your symptoms of blood appearing intermittently in your stool, along with a slight pain in the anal area, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider. Here are some guidelines on when to seek immediate medical attention:
- If you experience a significant amount of blood in your stool (more than a few drops).

- If the blood is dark or resembles tar, which may indicate bleeding higher up in the gastrointestinal tract.

- If you have accompanying symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, fever, or changes in bowel habits (e.g., persistent diarrhea or constipation).

- If you notice any unexplained weight loss or fatigue.

Diagnostic Approach
Your healthcare provider will likely perform a thorough history and physical examination. They may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as:
- Colonoscopy: This procedure allows direct visualization of the colon and rectum, enabling the doctor to identify and possibly treat any abnormalities.

- Blood Tests: These can help assess for anemia or infection.

- Stool Tests: To check for infections or blood.

Conclusion
In summary, while there are several potential causes for blood in the stool, it is essential to have a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying issue. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes, especially for conditions like colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease. Please make an appointment with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to discuss your symptoms and get the appropriate care.

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