Blood on Toilet Paper: Should You Worry About Your Colon Health?

Q: Blood on Toilet Paper: Should You Worry About Your Colon Health?

Hello： If you have polyps in the colon and a family history of colorectal cancer, it is important to follow up with colonoscopy screenings. <br>The frequency of follow-up for polyps should be based on your physician's recommendations. <br>It is also advisable to develop a habit o

Blood on toilet paper after wiping?

Hello Doctor, I had my first colonoscopy in October last year, during which two 2 cm polyps were removed (tubular adenomas), one was benign and the other was highly differentiated atypical.
In November of the same year, I had another colonoscopy (as recommended by my doctor) and three small polyps (0.2-0.3 cm) were removed: one hyperplastic polyp and two sessile serrated polyps.
In May 2020, I switched to a provincial hospital for another colonoscopy, where two small polyps were removed.

Recently, it has been over eight months since my last colonoscopy, and my stools have been mostly unformed; sometimes they are loose and sometimes they are muddy.
Recently, I noticed blood on the toilet paper after wiping, but not in the stool itself.
This has happened twice, with about a month in between, and there is no pain in my anus.
I am very worried because my grandmother passed away from colon cancer, my father has hyperplastic polyps, and my brother had a colonoscopy last time that revealed a 0.5 cm benign villous polyp.

Given that I have seen a little blood on the toilet paper, there is no pain in my anus, and it has been less than a year since my last colonoscopy, should I return for an earlier examination? Thank you for taking the time to read my message, and I appreciate your help.
Thank you.

Kandi, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/01/03

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: If you have polyps in the colon and a family history of colorectal cancer, it is important to follow up with colonoscopy screenings.
The frequency of follow-up for polyps should be based on your physician's recommendations.
It is also advisable to develop a habit of consuming more fruits and vegetables to promote regular bowel movements.
Occasional blood on toilet paper after wiping, without pain in the anus, is commonly caused by hemorrhoids; it is recommended to have a rectal and anal examination.
Wishing you safety and health! Sincerely, Dr.
Ming-Hui Lin, Attending Physician, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2021/01/03

More Info

When it comes to noticing blood on toilet paper, especially for someone with a history of polyps and family history of colorectal cancer, it is understandable to feel concerned. Blood in the stool or on toilet paper can arise from various causes, some of which are benign, while others may require more serious attention.

Given your medical history, including the removal of multiple polyps and your family history of colorectal cancer, it is crucial to take any instance of rectal bleeding seriously. The fact that you have had both benign and potentially precancerous polyps in the past means that you are at a higher risk for developing colorectal issues, including cancer.
The presence of blood on toilet paper can be attributed to several factors:
1. Hemorrhoids: These are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus that can cause bleeding, especially during bowel movements. They are common and usually not serious, but they can be uncomfortable.

2. Anal Fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus can occur due to passing hard stools, leading to pain and bleeding.

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

4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in bleeding.

5. Colorectal Polyps or Cancer: Given your history, any new bleeding could potentially be related to the recurrence of polyps or the development of colorectal cancer.

In your case, the fact that you have experienced changes in your bowel habits, such as inconsistent stool formation and occasional blood, warrants further investigation. While the absence of pain is a positive sign, it does not rule out the possibility of serious conditions.

Recommendations:
- Consult Your Gastroenterologist: Given your history and the recent symptoms, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with your gastroenterologist. They may recommend an earlier colonoscopy to assess the current state of your colon and check for any new polyps or abnormalities.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any additional symptoms, such as changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, weight loss, or changes in appetite. These can provide important information to your healthcare provider.

- Diet and Hydration: Ensure you are consuming a balanced diet rich in fiber, which can help maintain regular bowel movements and prevent constipation, potentially reducing the risk of hemorrhoids and fissures.

- Stay Informed: Educate yourself about the signs and symptoms of colorectal issues. Early detection is key in managing any potential problems effectively.

In conclusion, while not all instances of blood on toilet paper indicate a serious condition, your medical history and family background necessitate a proactive approach. It is always better to err on the side of caution and seek medical advice when it comes to gastrointestinal health. Regular screenings and open communication with your healthcare provider are essential components of maintaining your colon health.

Similar Q&A

Blood on Toilet Paper: Should You See a Doctor?

Hello doctor, I recently noticed (within the past week) that there are blood stains on the toilet paper after having a bowel movement. Today, I also noticed some mild pain around the anal area. Should I seek medical attention?

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Based on the symptoms, the likelihood of hemorrhoidal bleeding is the highest. It is advisable to avoid fried, spicy, and heat-inducing foods, and to consume more fruits and vegetables to facilitate bowel movements. If there is no improvement, please consult a colorectal s...

Is Blood on Toilet Paper a Sign of Colon Cancer?

Dr. Ke: After using the restroom and wiping, I noticed a small spot of blood on the toilet paper. Before having a bowel movement, I experience slight pain near my bladder. Could this be colon cancer?

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
Blood in a child's stool is often caused by hemorrhoids or anal fissures. Instead of worrying excessively about these possibilities, it would be more beneficial to focus on improving daily routines and dietary habits. Discussing these issues with parents can help resolve the...

Understanding Blood on Toilet Paper: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello, I would like to ask about the presence of blood on toilet paper after using the restroom lately. What could be the cause of this? My diet and lifestyle have been relatively normal, with a significant portion of my food being fruits and vegetables, and I haven't experi...

Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, rectal bleeding (bright red blood) may originate from the area around the anus (such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures) or from the rectum or lower colon (such as the sigmoid colon or descending colon). Possible conditions include inflammation, ulcers, or tumors. Therefore, ...

Blood on Toilet Paper: Should You Be Concerned?

Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about my personal habit of spending about 20 to 30 minutes in the restroom (reading or using my phone). At home, I usually rinse with clean water and have never experienced any bleeding issues. Recently, after using the restroom at work, I did no...

Dr. Wu Yuting reply Surgery
Hello Nathan: It is recommended to seek medical attention for any bleeding! Dr. Wu Yu-Ting, Xinying Hospital.