Rectal Bleeding: Causes and When to See a Surgeon

Q: Rectal Bleeding: Causes and When to See a Surgeon

Hello： In response to your question, if a seventeen-year-old male experiences blood in the stool accompanied by mucus, it is likely due to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). <br>This condition is often caused by poor regulation of the parasympathetic nervous system that controls the

I'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that?

Doctor, may I ask you something? For the past two days, I have been having difficulty with bowel movements.
I drank a lot of water (I usually drink a lot), and I was able to pass a little stool, but there was blood in it.
Additionally, there was mucus mixed with the blood.
I used toilet paper to wipe, and I suspect there might be a wound in my rectum.
I constantly feel the urge to have a bowel movement, but I can only pass a small amount occasionally.
Regardless of whether I can pass stool or not, if I exert pressure at the anus, there is bleeding.
Later, I touched the area around my anus and felt a prickling sensation.
I have an appointment with a general surgeon on August 28.
I'm not sure what is happening with my condition, and I hope you can provide me with some insight.
Thank you.

Xing Xiong, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/08/27

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Hello: In response to your question, if a seventeen-year-old male experiences blood in the stool accompanied by mucus, it is likely due to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
This condition is often caused by poor regulation of the parasympathetic nervous system that controls the colon, typically related to insufficient fiber intake and excessive mental stress.
Attention to diet and oral medications can lead to improvement.
As for the anal pain, it is likely caused by hemorrhoids due to frequent bowel movements.
Regular sitz baths can help alleviate this discomfort.
If this issue persists, consulting a colorectal surgeon may be more beneficial.

Reply Date: 2004/08/27

More Info

Rectal bleeding can be a concerning symptom, and it's important to understand its potential causes and when to seek surgical intervention. Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing some distressing symptoms, including difficulty with bowel movements, blood in your stool, and a sensation of discomfort around the anal area. Let's break down the possible causes and the appropriate steps to take.

Possible Causes of Rectal Bleeding
1. Hemorrhoids: One of the most common causes of rectal bleeding is hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus. They can cause pain, itching, and bleeding, especially during bowel movements. The blood is usually bright red and may be seen on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl.

2. Anal Fissures: These are small tears in the lining of the anus, often caused by passing hard stools. They can lead to sharp pain during bowel movements and may also cause bleeding, which is typically bright red.

3. Diverticular Disease: Diverticulosis can lead to diverticulitis, which is inflammation or infection of the diverticula. This condition can cause abdominal pain and rectal bleeding.

4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and rectal bleeding.

5. Polyps or Colorectal Cancer: Although less common, polyps in the colon can bleed, and colorectal cancer can also present with rectal bleeding. This is particularly concerning if there are other symptoms such as weight loss, changes in bowel habits, or a family history of colorectal cancer.

When to See a Surgeon
Given your symptoms, it is wise to consult a healthcare professional, especially since you have already scheduled an appointment with a general surgeon. Here are some indicators that warrant immediate medical attention:
- Heavy Bleeding: If you experience a significant amount of blood, especially if it is accompanied by dizziness or fainting.

- Severe Pain: If the pain around the anal area becomes unbearable or is accompanied by fever.

- Changes in Bowel Habits: If you notice a change in your bowel habits, such as persistent diarrhea or constipation.

- Unexplained Weight Loss: If you are losing weight without trying, this could indicate a more serious condition.

Preparing for Your Appointment
When you see the surgeon, be prepared to discuss your symptoms in detail. This includes:
- The frequency and amount of bleeding.

- Any accompanying symptoms (pain, changes in bowel habits, etc.).

- Your dietary habits and any recent changes.

- Any medications you are currently taking.

The surgeon may recommend diagnostic tests such as a colonoscopy, which allows for direct visualization of the colon and rectum, and can help identify the source of bleeding.

Conclusion
While rectal bleeding can be alarming, many causes are treatable, especially when addressed early. It is important to follow through with your scheduled appointment and communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms. They will be able to provide a thorough evaluation and recommend the best course of action based on your specific situation. Remember, early intervention can lead to better outcomes, so don’t hesitate to seek help.

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