Rectal Bleeding: Causes and Emergency Response

Rectal bleeding

Sudden rectal bleeding during a shower, which continues to drip and is not associated with a bowel movement, along with some lower abdominal bloating and pain, and persistent bleeding for 14 hours, could indicate several potential conditions.
These may include hemorrhoids, anal fissures, diverticular disease, or more serious conditions such as gastrointestinal bleeding or colorectal issues.
It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention in this situation, especially given the duration and amount of bleeding.
While waiting for medical help, it is advisable to:
1.
Remain calm and avoid straining during bowel movements.
2.
Avoid taking any medications that could thin the blood unless prescribed by a healthcare provider.
3.
If comfortable, lie down and keep the affected area clean and dry.
4.
Apply a cold compress to the area to help reduce swelling and discomfort.
Do not attempt to self-diagnose or treat the condition without professional guidance.

Miss Lin, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/01/24

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery

If the bleeding has persisted for too long, it is advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
If there is no appropriate specialty available (such as colorectal surgery to confirm if it is rectal bleeding), then go directly to the emergency department.

Reply Date: 2021/01/24

More Info

Rectal bleeding can be alarming, especially when it occurs suddenly and persists over an extended period. The symptoms you've described—rectal bleeding, abdominal discomfort, and the duration of the bleeding—warrant immediate medical attention. There are several potential causes for rectal bleeding, and understanding these can help in determining the appropriate response.

Possible Causes of Rectal Bleeding
1. Hemorrhoids: One of the most common causes of rectal bleeding, hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus. They can cause bright red blood during bowel movements or even when not straining.

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 and bleeding during or after bowel movements.

3. Diverticular Disease: Diverticulosis, which involves the formation of small pouches in the colon wall, can lead to diverticulitis when these pouches become inflamed or infected, resulting in bleeding.

4. Gastrointestinal Conditions: Conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, can cause rectal bleeding due to inflammation and ulceration of the intestinal lining.

5. Polyps or Colorectal Cancer: Polyps are growths on the inner lining of the colon or rectum that can bleed. Some polyps can develop into cancer over time, which can also present with rectal bleeding.

6. Infections: Certain infections, particularly those affecting the gastrointestinal tract, can lead to inflammation and bleeding.

7. Vascular Malformations: Abnormal blood vessels in the rectal area can also cause bleeding.

Emergency Response and Management
Given that your bleeding has persisted for 14 hours and is accompanied by abdominal pain, it is crucial to seek emergency medical care immediately. Here are steps to take while preparing for medical assistance:
1. Stay Calm: While it is natural to feel anxious, try to remain calm. Stress can exacerbate discomfort.

2. Avoid Straining: Do not attempt to have a bowel movement if you feel the urge, as this may worsen the bleeding or pain.

3. Positioning: If you are experiencing abdominal pain, lying down in a comfortable position may help alleviate some discomfort.

4. Hydration: If you are not feeling nauseous, try to stay hydrated. However, avoid any food or drink if you feel the need for surgery or further medical intervention.

5. Document Symptoms: Keep track of any additional symptoms you may experience, such as changes in bowel habits, the color and amount of blood, or any other unusual signs. This information will be helpful for healthcare providers.

6. Do Not Self-Diagnose: While it can be tempting to look up symptoms online, self-diagnosis can lead to unnecessary worry or delay in seeking appropriate care.

Conclusion
In summary, rectal bleeding can arise from various causes, some of which may require urgent medical intervention. Given the duration and nature of your symptoms, it is imperative to seek immediate medical attention. Healthcare professionals will likely perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies, to determine the underlying cause of the bleeding and provide appropriate treatment. Remember, timely intervention can be crucial in managing any serious conditions effectively.

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