Blood in Stool: Possible Causes and Concerns - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Blood in Stool: Possible Causes and Concerns

Hello： A bacterial infection can also cause bloody diarrhea, and it does not necessarily indicate cancer. <br>If there is no improvement, it is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist. <br>Changhua Hospital cares about your health. <br>Dr. <br>Tsai An-shun.

Diarrhea with blood?

Hello doctor, two days ago around noon, I experienced lower abdominal pain and went to the bathroom.
After finishing, I noticed blood, which was bright red.
Even after that, I still felt an unusual tightness in my lower abdomen.
Five hours later, I had another bowel movement, and again there was blood, also bright red.
The night before, I had eaten pork rib rice and red-fleshed guava.
The next day at noon, I had another bowel movement, and this time there was no blood.
About an hour after that, I suddenly felt the urge to defecate, but only a small amount came out.
After approximately five hours, I had another bowel movement.
This morning, I woke up with lower abdominal pain and had a bowel movement again, which was just a little bit and brown in color.
Throughout this period, I have consistently felt an unusual sensation in my lower abdomen, but there has been no pain in the anal area.
There is currently no family history of colorectal cancer.
I would like to know what kind of condition these symptoms might indicate.

A Dong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/09/16

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: A bacterial infection can also cause bloody diarrhea, and it does not necessarily indicate cancer.
If there is no improvement, it is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2022/09/16

More Info

Understanding blood in stool can be concerning, and it’s important to consider various potential causes and the implications of such symptoms. Based on the symptoms you described, including fresh red blood in your stool, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits, there are several possible explanations.

1. Hemorrhoids: One of the most common causes of bright red blood in the stool is hemorrhoids. These are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus that can bleed during bowel movements, especially if there is straining involved. The blood is typically bright red, which indicates that it is fresh and likely from the lower gastrointestinal tract.

2. Anal Fissures: Similar to hemorrhoids, anal fissures are small tears in the lining of the anus that can occur due to passing hard stools. They can cause sharp pain during bowel movements and may also lead to bright red blood.

3. Diverticular Disease: Diverticulosis, which involves the formation of small pouches in the colon wall, can lead to diverticulitis if these pouches become inflamed or infected. This condition can cause abdominal pain and bleeding.

4. Gastrointestinal Infections: Certain infections can lead to gastrointestinal bleeding. Bacterial infections, such as those caused by E. coli or Salmonella, can result in bloody diarrhea and abdominal pain.

5. Colorectal Polyps or Cancer: Although you mentioned that there is no family history of colorectal cancer, it is still a possibility, especially if you are experiencing persistent symptoms. Polyps can also cause bleeding and may be precursors to cancer.

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

7. Dietary Factors: Certain foods can sometimes lead to changes in stool color or consistency. For instance, consuming beets or certain red foods can cause red discoloration in the stool, which might be mistaken for blood.

Given your symptoms of abdominal pain, the presence of fresh blood, and the changes in stool color, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider may recommend diagnostic tests such as a colonoscopy, stool tests, or imaging studies to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.
In the meantime, monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent bleeding, or any signs of anemia (such as dizziness, fatigue, or paleness), seek immediate medical care. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for addressing any potential issues effectively.

In summary, while there are several potential causes for blood in the stool, ranging from benign conditions like hemorrhoids to more serious issues like colorectal cancer, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management.

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