Blood When Wiping: Should You See a Doctor for Anal Pain?

Q: Blood When Wiping: Should You See a Doctor for Anal Pain?

There are three common causes of rectal bleeding： 1. <br>Anal fissures or skin abrasions, 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 slightly larger volume o

Blood on toilet paper after wiping can indicate several potential issues, such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or other gastrointestinal conditions

In the morning, there was a strong urge to have a bowel movement.
While using the toilet, I noticed a small amount of bright red blood when wiping, but there was no blood in the stool.
Could this be due to an injury from straining at the anus? After that, when I wiped again, there was no blood.
Now, there is still some pain in the area.
Should I see a doctor, or will it heal on its own?

Zi Se Mi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/12/03

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery

There are three common causes of rectal bleeding: 1.
Anal fissures or skin abrasions, 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 presents with darker blood and may be associated with changes in bowel habits or abdominal symptoms; this is less common in younger individuals.
Based on your description, it seems closer to the first scenario.
You may start with warm sitz baths and apply topical ointments, while ensuring adequate hydration and dietary fiber intake to prevent constipation.
If the condition does not improve, please seek further evaluation in a clinic.

Reply Date: 2022/12/03

More Info

When you notice blood while wiping after a bowel movement, especially if it is bright red and there is no blood in the stool, it can be concerning. However, in many cases, this symptom may not indicate a serious condition. The presence of bright red blood typically suggests that the source of bleeding is near the anus, which could be due to several benign causes.

One of the most common reasons for this type of bleeding is hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus that can become inflamed and bleed, especially during bowel movements when straining occurs. This is often accompanied by discomfort or pain in the anal area. Another possibility is an anal fissure, which is a small tear in the lining of the anus that can occur from passing hard stools or straining. This can also cause sharp pain and bleeding during or after bowel movements.

Given that you mentioned experiencing some pain in the area, it is possible that you may have a minor injury from straining or passing a hard stool. If the bleeding was minimal and has not recurred, it may resolve on its own without the need for medical intervention. However, if you continue to experience pain, if the bleeding returns, or if you notice any other concerning symptoms such as significant pain, changes in bowel habits, or blood in your stool, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional.

In terms of self-care, you might consider the following measures to alleviate discomfort and promote healing:
1. Increase Fiber Intake: Eating a diet rich in fiber can help soften stools and reduce straining during bowel movements. Foods high in fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.

2. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can also help prevent constipation and make bowel movements easier.

3. Warm Sitz Baths: Soaking in a warm bath can help relieve pain and discomfort in the anal area.

4. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: If you are experiencing significant discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help.

5. Avoid Straining: Try to relax and avoid straining during bowel movements. If you feel the urge to go, respond to it promptly.

If you find that these self-care measures do not improve your symptoms or if you have any doubts about your condition, it is always best to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough examination, rule out any serious conditions, and provide appropriate treatment options.

In summary, while the presence of bright red blood when wiping can often be attributed to minor issues like hemorrhoids or anal fissures, it is essential to monitor your symptoms. If the bleeding persists or worsens, or if you have any other concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to consult a doctor for further evaluation and peace of mind.

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