Dark Red Jelly-like Blood Clots in Stool: Causes and Concerns

The stool has dark red jelly-like blood clots?

Hello, doctor.
This week, I have noticed dark red jelly-like blood clots located in the front-middle part of my stool, and the blood clots are separate from the stool.
I have previously been diagnosed with internal hemorrhoids, and my stool has been harder and bulkier at the beginning, causing pain during bowel movements.
I started using Proctosedyl ointment two days ago, but it seems to have little effect because in the past, when I had flare-ups, the blood was bright red, and the ointment quickly stopped the bleeding.
A year and a half ago, I had a fecal occult blood test that was negative.
For the past six months, I have been soaking in warm water every night, and two days after bathing, I started noticing blood clots in my stool.
Could these symptoms possibly indicate a tumor in the rectum or sigmoid colon? Thank you.

A Jun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/04/12

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

It may be inflammatory bowel disease; keep a record of daily bowel movements and seek medical evaluation (colonoscopy).

Reply Date: 2024/04/12

More Info

The presence of dark red jelly-like blood clots in your stool can be concerning, especially given your history of hemorrhoids and the recent changes in your bowel movements. Based on your description, there are several potential causes for these symptoms, and it’s important to consider them carefully.

Firstly, the dark red jelly-like blood clots you are observing could be related to your existing condition of hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids can cause bleeding, and the blood may appear darker if it has been in the rectum for a longer period before being expelled. The fact that you mentioned experiencing pain during bowel movements, along with hard and coarse stools, suggests that you may be straining, which can exacerbate hemorrhoidal bleeding. The use of topical treatments like the ointment you mentioned (保能痣軟膏) is common for managing hemorrhoids, but if the symptoms persist or worsen, it may not be sufficient on its own.

Another possibility is that the blood clots could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a rectal or sigmoid colon tumor. While your previous fecal occult blood test was negative, it is important to note that this test can sometimes miss bleeding from certain types of lesions. Tumors can cause bleeding, and the appearance of blood in the stool can vary depending on the location and nature of the growth. Given that you are experiencing new symptoms, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

Additionally, the consistency and appearance of your stool can provide valuable information. Hard stools can lead to anal fissures, which can also cause bleeding. The fact that you have been soaking in warm water may help alleviate some discomfort, but it is essential to address the underlying cause of your hard stools, possibly through dietary changes or the use of stool softeners.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to your known hemorrhoidal condition, the presence of dark red jelly-like blood clots warrants further investigation to rule out any serious underlying issues, including potential tumors. It is advisable to seek an appointment with a gastroenterologist or a colorectal specialist who can perform a physical examination and possibly recommend further diagnostic tests, such as a colonoscopy, to assess the health of your rectum and colon. Early detection and treatment are key to managing any potential issues effectively.
In the meantime, consider increasing your fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and ensure you are staying hydrated to help soften your stools. Avoid straining during bowel movements, and if necessary, discuss with your doctor the use of stool softeners or laxatives to ease your symptoms. Your health is paramount, and addressing these concerns promptly will help you achieve better outcomes.

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