Sudden Abdominal Pain and Blood in Stool: What You Need to Know

Waking up in the middle of the night with abdominal pain and noticing blood in the stool after using the bathroom?

Hello, today (July 6th) I took a nap in the afternoon and suddenly woke up with abdominal pain.
I rushed to the bathroom and after some time on the toilet, I started to have a bowel movement, but it was mostly fresh blood with very little stool.
The stool that did come out was also stained red.
At this point, my abdomen was still very painful, and I couldn't pass any more.
After feeling like I couldn't relieve myself further, I wiped and went back to bed to rest, but the pain persisted (it was so intense that I had to press on the painful area, which is located just above my navel).
After lying there for a while, the pain gradually subsided, and I rested until the evening.

When I woke up at night, I felt the urge to have a bowel movement.
As I got up, I felt something unusual at my anus, so I hurried to the toilet again.
This time, I passed more blood or blood-stained stool, and the bleeding seemed to be slightly diluted by a clear liquid from my intestines.
Now, I feel like I did when I had gastroenteritis before; my stomach feels bloated, and I occasionally have a faint urge to defecate.
Since waking up last night, I've gone to the bathroom several times, but I've only passed some red-stained, crumbly stool, and there is hardly any liquid blood compared to the first time.
Although I have already scheduled an appointment for a medical examination, I still want to look online to understand more and ease my mind...
Thank you.

ae, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/06

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Just wait for the results of the colonoscopy.
If the pain is severe, it may be necessary to go to the emergency department.

Reply Date: 2020/07/06

More Info

Sudden abdominal pain accompanied by blood in the stool can be concerning and may indicate a range of underlying medical conditions. Based on your description, it is crucial to understand the potential causes and the importance of seeking medical attention.

Firstly, the presence of fresh blood in the stool, especially when accompanied by abdominal pain, can suggest several gastrointestinal issues. Some common causes include:
1. Hemorrhoids: Swollen blood vessels in the rectal area can cause bright red blood during bowel movements, often accompanied by discomfort or pain.

2. Anal Fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus can lead to sharp pain and bleeding during bowel movements, particularly if the stool is hard or large.

3. Diverticulitis: This condition occurs when small pouches (diverticula) in the colon become inflamed or infected, leading to abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits, including blood in the stool.

4. Gastrointestinal Infections: Infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites can lead to inflammation of the intestines, resulting in abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea.

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

6. Colorectal Polyps or Cancer: Polyps are growths on the inner lining of the colon that can bleed. While not all polyps are cancerous, some can develop into colorectal cancer, which may present with similar symptoms.

Given the severity of your symptoms—sudden onset of abdominal pain, significant blood in the stool, and the feeling of an obstruction—it is essential to take these signs seriously. The fact that you have already scheduled a medical examination is a positive step, as a healthcare professional will be able to conduct a thorough assessment, which may include a physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies such as a CT scan or colonoscopy.

In the meantime, here are some general recommendations:
- Stay Hydrated: Blood loss can lead to dehydration, so it’s important to drink fluids, especially if you are experiencing diarrhea.

- Avoid Certain Foods: Until you see a doctor, it may be wise to avoid spicy, fatty, or high-fiber foods that could irritate your digestive system further.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, including the frequency and nature of your bowel movements, any additional pain, or the presence of fever.

- Rest: Allow your body to recover by getting plenty of rest.

It is crucial to avoid self-diagnosing or delaying medical care, especially with symptoms like yours. Conditions that cause abdominal pain and rectal bleeding can escalate quickly, and timely intervention can be critical in preventing complications. Always prioritize professional medical advice and treatment.

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