Stool Color Changes: When to Worry About Blood

Stool color

Hello Doctor, last Saturday after using the restroom, I noticed that the water in the toilet was a deep coffee color and seemed a bit red, resembling coffee with a hint of red.
Could this be a sign of colon cancer or other bleeding symptoms? I do not feel any discomfort, but I experienced a bit of orthostatic hypotension when getting up from lying down.
Last Friday, I only had a Dandan burger meal, which included a spicy chicken thigh burger, noodle soup, and chicken leg.
I did not consume any foods with red coloring on that day or the days prior, and the appearance of my stool and the toilet paper was normal.
From last Sunday until today, everything has appeared normal, sometimes with a deeper coffee color, and the toilet water only had a slight coffee-yellow tint.
Last week, there were a few days when my stool was quite bulky, but this week I occasionally have diarrhea or produce less stool that is not bulky, going to the restroom about twice a day.
While showering, I checked my rectum and found no blood or foul odor, just the normal smell of stool.
I had a colonoscopy three years ago, which showed only irritable bowel syndrome and a bit of hemorrhoids, with no history of rectal bleeding.
Doctor, could this possibly not be bleeding? Or is there a chance that the stool was not fully formed and mixed with gastrointestinal bleeding from a tumor, hence not visible on the surface? This is the first time this has occurred, and I would appreciate your advice.
Thank you, Doctor.

Nìmíng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/17

Dr. Yu Mingchang reply Surgery

There is nothing serious; you can visit a colorectal specialist when you have time.

Reply Date: 2021/10/17

More Info

When it comes to changes in stool color, especially when there are concerns about potential bleeding or gastrointestinal issues, it's important to approach the situation with a careful understanding of the possible causes and implications. Based on your description, you observed a deep coffee-colored water in the toilet after a bowel movement, which raised concerns about potential bleeding, particularly in relation to conditions like colorectal cancer.

Firstly, the color of stool can vary significantly based on a variety of factors, including diet, hydration levels, and gastrointestinal health. Foods that are dark in color, such as beets or certain berries, can lead to darker stools. However, in your case, you mentioned that you had not consumed any red-colored foods prior to the observation. The fact that you experienced a deep coffee color, which can sometimes resemble blood, is understandably concerning.

The absence of any discomfort, such as pain or significant changes in bowel habits, is a positive sign. You also noted that your stool appeared normal in color and consistency over the following days, which further suggests that this may not be a serious issue. It’s worth noting that transient changes in stool color can occur due to various benign reasons, including dietary changes or even dehydration.

Regarding your history of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and mild hemorrhoids, these conditions can sometimes lead to changes in bowel habits and stool appearance. Hemorrhoids, for instance, can cause minor bleeding, but you indicated that you have not experienced any blood in your stool or on toilet paper, which is reassuring.

The concern about colorectal cancer is valid, especially given the potential for symptoms to be subtle in the early stages. However, your previous colonoscopy three years ago, which showed only IBS and mild hemorrhoids, is a significant factor in assessing your risk. Regular screenings are crucial, especially if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors.

In terms of your symptoms, the combination of occasional diarrhea and changes in stool consistency could be attributed to dietary factors, stress, or even a mild gastrointestinal infection. The posture-related low blood pressure you mentioned might also indicate that you are experiencing some transient changes in your body’s response to position changes, which can occur for various reasons, including dehydration or fatigue.

Given that your stool has returned to a more normal appearance and you are not experiencing any alarming symptoms, it may not be necessary to panic. However, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you notice any recurrence of the coffee-colored water, blood in your stool, significant changes in bowel habits, or any new symptoms such as abdominal pain, weight loss, or changes in appetite, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, while the initial observation of deep coffee-colored water can be concerning, the absence of other symptoms and the normalization of your stool suggest that it may not be indicative of a serious condition. However, maintaining awareness of your body’s signals and seeking medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen is always a wise approach. Regular check-ups and screenings, especially given your history, will help ensure that any potential issues are caught early.

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