Blood-Streaked Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Blood-tinged mucus

Hello, I experienced abdominal pain and passed mucus-streaked blood in my stool yesterday.
After having a bowel movement, the pain in my abdomen subsided.
I have previously had hard stools and noticed blood when wiping.
What could be the cause of the blood in my stool? Since I had diarrhea yesterday and my rectum doesn't hurt, it shouldn't be a hemorrhoid issue.

X, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/10/27

Dr. Yang Zhichao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

You can visit the gastroenterology and hepatology outpatient clinic.

Reply Date: 2023/10/27

More Info

Blood-streaked mucus in stool can be concerning and may indicate various underlying conditions. Given your symptoms of abdominal pain followed by the passage of mucus-streaked stool, it’s essential to consider several potential causes and their implications.

1. Hemorrhoids: While you mentioned that it might not be hemorrhoids, they are still a common cause of blood in the stool, especially if you have experienced hard stools previously. Hemorrhoids can become irritated and bleed, particularly after straining during bowel movements.

2. Anal Fissures: Similar to hemorrhoids, anal fissures can occur due to passing hard stools. They are small tears in the lining of the anus, which can cause pain and bleeding during bowel movements. The presence of mucus may also be noted as the body tries to lubricate the area.

3. Infections: Gastrointestinal infections, whether viral, bacterial, or parasitic, can lead to inflammation of the intestines, resulting in mucus and blood in the stool. Conditions like gastroenteritis can cause diarrhea and abdominal pain, which may explain your symptoms.

4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and blood or mucus in the stool. These conditions often require further evaluation through endoscopy or imaging studies.

5. Diverticular Disease: Diverticulitis, which occurs when diverticula (small pouches that can form in the colon) become inflamed or infected, can also lead to abdominal pain and blood in the stool. This condition is more common in older adults but can occur in younger individuals as well.

6. Polyps or Colorectal Cancer: While less common, especially in younger individuals, polyps in the colon can bleed and may present with blood-streaked mucus. Colorectal cancer is a serious condition that can present with similar symptoms, particularly in individuals over 50 or those with a family history of colorectal cancer.

Given that your abdominal pain resolved after the bowel movement, it may suggest that the pain was related to the hard stool or a temporary gastrointestinal issue. However, the presence of blood in the stool is a symptom that should not be ignored. It is crucial to seek medical attention for a proper evaluation. A healthcare provider may recommend a physical examination, stool tests, and possibly imaging studies or a colonoscopy to determine the exact cause of your symptoms.

In summary, while there are several potential explanations for blood-streaked mucus in stool, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional to rule out serious conditions and receive appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis and management can significantly improve outcomes and prevent complications.

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