Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

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When you notice blood in your stool, especially if it appears bright red, it can be concerning and warrants immediate attention. The presence of blood can indicate various conditions, some of which may require urgent medical intervention. Here’s a breakdown of potential causes and when you should seek help.


Possible Causes of Blood in Stool
1. Hemorrhoids: One of the most common causes of bright red blood on toilet paper or in the stool is hemorrhoids. These are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus that can bleed during bowel movements, especially if you are straining or experiencing constipation.

2. Anal Fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus can occur, often due to passing hard stools. This can lead to sharp pain during bowel movements and bright red blood.

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, potentially causing bleeding.

4. Colorectal Polyps or Cancer: Polyps are growths on the inner lining of the colon or rectum that can bleed. While many polyps are benign, some can develop into cancer. Colorectal cancer can also present with blood in the stool, especially if it is more significant or accompanied by other symptoms like weight loss or changes in bowel habits.

5. Gastrointestinal Infections: Certain infections can cause inflammation and bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to blood in the stool.

6. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation and ulceration in the intestines, resulting in bleeding.


When to Seek Medical Help
You should seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent Blood: If blood in your stool persists over several days or is accompanied by other symptoms.

- Severe Pain: If you have significant abdominal pain, cramping, or discomfort.

- Changes in Bowel Habits: If you notice a change in your bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, that lasts more than a few days.

- Other Symptoms: If you experience additional symptoms such as fever, chills, weight loss, or fatigue.

- Large Amounts of Blood: If you see a large amount of blood or if the blood is dark or tarry, which may indicate bleeding higher up in the gastrointestinal tract.


What to Expect at the Doctor's Office
When you visit a healthcare provider, they will likely perform a thorough evaluation, which may include:
- Medical History: Discussing your symptoms, duration, and any associated factors.

- Physical Examination: A physical exam, including a rectal exam, to check for hemorrhoids or fissures.

- Diagnostic Tests: Depending on your symptoms, they may recommend blood tests, stool tests, colonoscopy, or imaging studies to determine the cause of the bleeding.


Conclusion
Blood in the stool should never be ignored, as it can be a sign of a serious condition. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for the best outcomes. If you are experiencing this symptom, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional promptly to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Remember, while some causes of blood in the stool may be benign, others can be serious and require immediate medical attention.