Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help

Q: Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help

There are three common causes of rectal bleeding： 1. <br>Anal fissures or skin irritation leading to bleeding, characterized by a small amount of blood accompanied by a sharp pain at the site of the injury. <br>2. <br>Ruptured thrombosed hemorrhoids, which typically produce a sli

Rectal bleeding

Hello Doctor: After using the restroom, I noticed blood in my stool, as the toilet water was stained red.
I couldn't determine if there was blood mixed in with the stool, but I did see some thick blood on the toilet bowl, and there was blood on the toilet paper when I wiped, although it stopped bleeding quickly.
Previously, I would have a bowel movement every day, but recently, possibly due to eating less while trying to lose weight, I sometimes go 2-3 days without a bowel movement.
Since I have never experienced anything like this before, I would like to ask the doctor what the possible causes of the bleeding might be, and whether I should observe for a few more days or seek medical attention directly.
Thank you.

Xiao Ya, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/11/30

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery

There are three common causes of rectal bleeding: 1.
Anal fissures or skin irritation leading to bleeding, characterized by a small amount of blood accompanied by a sharp pain at the site of the injury.
2.
Ruptured thrombosed hemorrhoids, which typically produce a slightly larger volume of blood, usually occurring after straining during bowel movements, and may be painless or cause only mild discomfort.
3.
Gastrointestinal bleeding related to conditions such as polyps, ulcers, or tumors, which tends to be darker in color and may be associated with changes in bowel habits or abdominal symptoms; this is less common in younger individuals.
If there has been recent difficulty with bowel movements, the most likely causes of bleeding are hemorrhoids or anal fissures.
It is recommended to take warm sitz baths and increase fluid and dietary fiber intake.
If concerns persist, a consultation for examination is advisable to determine the cause of the bleeding.

Reply Date: 2022/11/30

More Info

Experiencing blood in your stool can be alarming, and it's essential to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical help. Blood in the stool can arise from various sources within the gastrointestinal tract, and the characteristics of the blood can provide clues about its origin.

Common Causes of Blood in Stool
1. Hemorrhoids: One of the most common causes of blood in the stool, especially if the blood is bright red and appears on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus that can bleed during bowel movements.

2. Anal Fissures: These are small tears in the lining of the anus, often caused by passing hard stools. They can result in bright red blood and are usually accompanied by pain during bowel movements.

3. Gastrointestinal Bleeding: This can occur from various conditions, including:
- Diverticulosis: Small pouches that can form in the colon wall and may bleed.

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

- Polyps or Colorectal Cancer: These can lead to bleeding, and the blood may appear darker, indicating it is from higher up in the gastrointestinal tract.

4. Infections: Certain infections can cause inflammation and bleeding in the intestines, leading to bloody stools.

5. Dietary Factors: Sometimes, changes in diet, such as increased fiber intake or certain foods, can lead to changes in bowel habits and may cause minor bleeding.

When to Seek Medical Help
Given your situation, where you noticed blood in the toilet and on toilet paper, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. Here are some guidelines on when to seek medical attention:
- Immediate Attention: If you experience significant bleeding (more than a small amount), dizziness, fainting, or severe abdominal pain, seek emergency medical care immediately.

- Persistent Symptoms: If the blood in your stool persists for more than a day or two, or if you notice other concerning symptoms such as weight loss, changes in bowel habits (like constipation or diarrhea), or abdominal pain, you should consult a healthcare provider.

- Changes in Bowel Habits: Since you mentioned a change in your bowel habits, going from daily bowel movements to every 2-3 days, this could indicate an underlying issue that warrants further investigation.

- Previous Health Conditions: If you have a history of gastrointestinal issues, such as IBD or polyps, or if you are over 50, it is advisable to see a doctor sooner rather than later.

Conclusion
While minor bleeding can sometimes be attributed to benign causes like hemorrhoids or anal fissures, it is essential to take any instance of blood in the stool seriously. Given your recent changes in bowel habits and the presence of blood, it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend tests such as a colonoscopy or imaging studies to determine the cause of the bleeding and to rule out any serious conditions. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing any potential health issues effectively.

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