Red Residue on Toilet Paper: Is It Tomato or Blood? - Surgery

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When you notice red residue on toilet paper after wiping, it can understandably cause concern. The first step in determining whether this residue is food-related, such as tomato remnants, or potentially blood, is to consider several factors including your recent diet, bowel habits, and any accompanying symptoms.

From your description, you mentioned that your stool was a normal brown color, and you had consumed tomatoes recently. This is significant because undigested food particles, particularly from tomatoes, can sometimes appear as red or reddish residue. The skin of tomatoes is particularly fibrous and may not break down completely during digestion, leading to the possibility of it being mistaken for blood.
In the context of your previous health history, you had a colonoscopy last July with no abnormalities reported. This is a reassuring factor, as it suggests that there are no underlying structural issues in your colon at that time. However, it is important to note that just because a previous examination was normal does not completely rule out the possibility of new issues arising.

To differentiate between tomato residue and blood, you can perform a simple test. If you have the opportunity, take a small sample of the red residue and mix it with water. If it disperses and turns the water red, it is more likely to be blood. Conversely, if it remains intact and does not change the water color significantly, it is likely food residue. Additionally, blood from the rectum or anus typically appears bright red and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, discomfort, or changes in bowel habits.

Given that you have not experienced any pain or discomfort, and your bowel movements have been regular, it may be less likely that this is a serious issue. However, if the red residue persists, or if you begin to experience other symptoms such as abdominal pain, changes in stool consistency, or any other unusual signs, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional.

As for the question of whether you should schedule a fecal occult blood test (FOBT), it is generally recommended if there are ongoing concerns about potential bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. Since you have observed this red residue multiple times, and especially if it continues, it would be wise to discuss this with your doctor. They may recommend further testing to rule out any gastrointestinal bleeding or other conditions.

In summary, while the red residue could very well be tomato remnants, it is essential to monitor the situation closely. If you notice any changes or if the residue continues to appear, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Your health is important, and proactive measures can help ensure any potential issues are addressed promptly.