Abdominal Pain and Blood in Stool: When to Seek Help

Hemorrhage, pressure sensation?

Hello Dr.
Hu, I previously asked about my condition: about a year ago, I experienced gastrointestinal motility issues, with pellet-like stools, difficulty in bowel movements, and a sensation of being completely blocked with abdominal bloating and gas.
I have made some progress and have not taken laxatives recently.
However, in the last month or two, I have started to feel a pressure in my upper right abdomen that has persisted for over a month and has begun to cause pain.
I frequently notice black stools, and there is a noticeable leakage of red blood around the stool.
I am very concerned about the possibility of something serious.
What could this issue be, and is it urgent? If I go to a major hospital, what kind of examinations would be performed, and what are the purposes of those tests? Thank you very much for your patience and assistance, and I look forward to your reply.

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/03/07

Dr. Hu Guozheng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

We apologize, but online consultations cannot replace in-person diagnoses.
We recommend that you visit a regional hospital or higher-level facility specializing in hepatobiliary and gastroenterology or colorectal surgery.
As for what examinations are needed, please have your attending physician evaluate and address your questions in person.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2024/03/07

More Info

When it comes to abdominal pain and the presence of blood in stool, it is crucial to take these symptoms seriously, especially considering your history of gastrointestinal issues. The symptoms you describe—persistent right upper abdominal pressure and pain, along with black stools and bright red blood—can indicate several potential conditions, some of which may require urgent medical attention.

Possible Causes
1. Gastrointestinal Bleeding: The presence of black stools (melena) suggests that there may be bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract, such as from a peptic ulcer or esophageal varices. Bright red blood in the stool can indicate bleeding from the lower gastrointestinal tract, such as from hemorrhoids, diverticulosis, or colorectal cancer.

2. Bowel Obstruction: Given your history of constipation and the sensation of being "blocked," there is a possibility of a bowel obstruction, which can lead to abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits.

3. Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause abdominal pain and rectal bleeding. These are chronic inflammatory bowel diseases that require specific management.

4. Gallbladder Issues: Since you mentioned right upper abdominal pain, gallbladder disease, including gallstones or cholecystitis, could be a consideration.

5. Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can also present with upper abdominal pain and may be associated with changes in stool color.

When to Seek Help
Given the combination of symptoms—especially the presence of blood in your stool and persistent abdominal pain—it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. You should consider visiting a hospital or a gastroenterologist for a thorough evaluation.

Recommended Tests
When you visit a healthcare provider, they may recommend several diagnostic tests to determine the cause of your symptoms:
1. Blood Tests: These can help assess your overall health, check for anemia (which can occur with significant blood loss), and evaluate liver function.

2. Stool Tests: A stool sample may be analyzed for the presence of blood, pathogens, or signs of inflammation.

3. Imaging Studies:
- Ultrasound: This can help visualize the organs in your abdomen, including the liver, gallbladder, and kidneys.

- CT Scan: A CT scan of the abdomen can provide detailed images and help identify issues such as obstructions, tumors, or inflammatory conditions.

- X-rays: Abdominal X-rays can help identify blockages or perforations in the gastrointestinal tract.

4. Endoscopy:
- Upper Endoscopy (EGD): This procedure allows the doctor to view the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine to check for sources of bleeding.

- Colonoscopy: This is essential for examining the lower gastrointestinal tract and can help identify sources of bleeding, polyps, or cancer.

Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms warrant immediate medical evaluation. The combination of abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and the presence of blood in your stool can indicate serious conditions that require prompt diagnosis and treatment. Do not hesitate to seek help from a healthcare professional, as early intervention can significantly improve outcomes.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Abdominal Pain and Blood in Stool: When to Seek Help

Hello doctor, I recently started experiencing sudden abdominal pain, but I don't feel the urge to use the restroom. After resting for a while, I feel somewhat better, but the pain persists. When I checked my stool, I noticed a small amount of red color, although it's no...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
This situation likely indicates a higher possibility of hemorrhoidal bleeding. As long as there is no further bleeding, it should not be a major concern. It is recommended to avoid constipation during this period and to shorten the time spent on bowel movements. Increasing dietar...

Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello, doctor. For the past two weeks, I have been experiencing blood in my stool every time I have a bowel movement. There are small amounts of bright red blood that seem to be mixed with the stool. The shape of my stool is often many small pieces pressed together in a short, na...

Dr. Yang Zhichao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Ms. Sara, the presence of blood in your stool, considering your age, is likely due to anal fissures or internal hemorrhoids. However, if this persists, I recommend that you consult a physician for an evaluation. This will also help alleviate any psychological stress or worr...

Understanding Blood in Stool: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello, doctor! Let me describe my situation. For the past three days, I woke up one morning with abdominal pain, and after going to the bathroom, I experienced diarrhea. Initially, I thought the abdominal pain and diarrhea were normal, but then I started having frequent trips to ...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The likelihood of gastroenteritis is higher, and if there is a clear presence of blood in the stool, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to avoid the risk of a severe bacterial infection that could delay treatment and lead to sepsis. Changhua Hospital care...

Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello! I have a persistent pain in my abdominal area that feels like it's about to burst. I experience diarrhea several times a day, and each time there is significant bleeding. It's very uncomfortable every time I go to the bathroom. Am I suffering from a serious condi...

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery
Blood in the stool, along with changes in bowel habits or accompanied by other symptoms, may indicate a range of possible diagnoses from common hemorrhoids to more serious gastrointestinal conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or tumors. It is recommended to visit a hospi...