Blood in Stool: Causes, Treatments, and When to Seek Help

My stool?

Hello, I previously experienced blood in my stool and went to the hospital for an examination.
The doctor said it was probably hemorrhoids.
I underwent rubber band ligation, which was extremely painful at the time.
Later, I chose to use traditional Chinese medicine to regulate my body, and the issue of blood in my stool did not occur again until recently when I stopped taking herbal medicine for about two months.
The blood in my stool has reappeared, and I suspect it may be due to prolonged sitting.
I would like to ask the doctor what I can do to improve this situation, as I am very concerned about my current condition and I have questions about the symptoms of colorectal cancer.
Additionally, I often experience pain on the left side of my head, and when it hurts, my eyes feel strange as well.
I am unsure what is causing the headache, and I don't know which specialist to see.
This symptom has persisted for almost a month.
Could it be caused by sleeping too much, or could it be related to my cavities?

Fanrao Ren'er, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/11/29

Dr. Zhao Chongliang reply Internal Medicine

If there is recurrent bleeding, it may not necessarily be hemorrhoids, nor does it have to be colorectal cancer; it could simply be caused by polyps, ulcerative colitis, diverticulosis, or vascular lesions (angiodysplasia).
It is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist for a less painful sigmoidoscopy and double-contrast barium enema, and only proceed with a colonoscopy and angiography if necessary.
As for hemorrhoids, rubber band ligation is not always required; topical medications or suppositories with vasoconstrictive properties can be used first.
If these are ineffective, injecting a sclerosing agent may be a less painful option.
The development of hemorrhoids is related to the evolution of humans from crawling to upright walking, as the blood vessels in the hemorrhoidal area did not evolve to develop valves that prevent blood from pooling when standing.
It is not solely due to prolonged sitting that hemorrhoids occur.

Left-sided headaches with unusual visual symptoms may indicate a migraine, but it is also possible that left-sided dental caries could cause similar symptoms.
Generally, during sleep, we tend to turn over, which would prevent one-sided headaches.
It is advisable to first consult a neurologist, and if dental caries are suspected, a referral to a dentist should also be made.

Reply Date: 2004/11/29

More Info

Blood in stool can be a concerning symptom, and it's important to understand the potential causes, treatments, and when to seek medical help. In your case, it seems that you have a history of hemorrhoids, which can indeed lead to blood in the stool, especially if there is straining during bowel movements or prolonged sitting. However, it's crucial to rule out other possible causes, including more serious conditions like colorectal cancer.

Causes of Blood in Stool
1. Hemorrhoids: Swollen veins in the rectum or anus that can cause bleeding, especially during bowel movements.

2. Anal Fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus, often caused by passing hard stools.

3. Diverticular Disease: Small pouches that can form in the colon wall and may bleed.

4. Gastrointestinal Infections: Certain infections can cause inflammation and bleeding in the digestive tract.

5. Polyps or Colorectal Cancer: Abnormal growths in the colon or rectum can lead to bleeding and should be evaluated, especially if you have risk factors or a family history of colorectal cancer.

Treatments
- For Hemorrhoids: Treatments can include dietary changes (increased fiber intake), topical treatments, and procedures like rubber band ligation or surgery if necessary.

- For Anal Fissures: Increasing fiber and fluid intake, topical anesthetics, and sometimes surgery for chronic fissures.

- For Other Conditions: Treatment will depend on the underlying cause. For example, infections may require antibiotics, while polyps or cancer may necessitate surgical intervention.

When to Seek Help
You should seek medical attention if:
- The bleeding is heavy or persistent.

- You experience significant pain or discomfort.

- You notice changes in your bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation.

- You have other symptoms like weight loss, fatigue, or changes in appetite.

Concerns About Colorectal Cancer
Given your concerns about colorectal cancer, it’s important to be vigilant. Symptoms of colorectal cancer can include:
- Blood in the stool (which can be bright red or dark).

- A change in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation).

- Unexplained weight loss.

- Abdominal discomfort or bloating.

If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors, it may be advisable to discuss screening options with your healthcare provider, even if you are young.

Headaches and Other Symptoms
Regarding your headaches and the associated symptoms, it’s important to consider several factors:
- Tension Headaches: Often caused by stress, poor posture, or prolonged sitting.

- Migraine: Can cause severe headaches, often accompanied by visual disturbances or nausea.

- Dental Issues: Cavities or other dental problems can sometimes cause referred pain to the head.

- Other Causes: Sinus issues, eye strain, or even sleep disturbances can lead to headaches.

Recommendations
1. Diet and Lifestyle: Maintain a high-fiber diet, stay hydrated, and avoid prolonged sitting. Regular exercise can also help improve bowel function and reduce the risk of hemorrhoids.

2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, including the frequency and amount of blood in your stool.

3. Consult a Specialist: For your gastrointestinal symptoms, a gastroenterologist would be the appropriate specialist to consult. For your headaches, a neurologist or headache specialist may provide further insights.

4. Dental Check-Up: If you suspect dental issues, visiting a dentist can help address any underlying problems that may be contributing to your headaches.

In summary, while hemorrhoids may be the cause of your blood in stool, it’s essential to remain vigilant and consult healthcare professionals to rule out more serious conditions. Addressing your headaches with the appropriate specialists can also help improve your overall well-being.

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