Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health

Regarding hematochezia?

Hello Dr.
Chen,
I have been experiencing rectal bleeding since I was about 24 years old.
Initially, it occurred about once or twice a year, with only a small amount of blood on the toilet paper.
However, over the past year and a half, the frequency of the rectal bleeding has increased significantly, occurring almost every month.
Sometimes the bleeding lasts for about three days, and other times it lasts for about a week.
In the last two to three months, each episode has lasted more than a month, and sometimes there is only blood without any other stool.
I have researched information about rectal bleeding online and have heard doctors on television explain the causes of rectal bleeding (such as gastrointestinal bleeding or hemorrhoids).
It was mentioned that normal stool should be cylindrical, and if it becomes granular and accompanied by bright red blood, it could indicate colorectal cancer.
Since I rarely experience stomach pain and the blood is always bright red, I believe it is unlikely to be gastrointestinal bleeding.
I would like to know what the likelihood of having colorectal cancer is in my case.
Thank you for taking the time to respond to my concerns.
TKS!

Aandy, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/04/06

Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, to determine whether you have a tumor, it is not possible to make assumptions based solely on the presence of blood in the stool.
Therefore, I recommend that you visit a gastroenterology or colorectal surgery clinic to arrange for an examination (colonoscopy) to rule out the possibility of colorectal cancer.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chen Zhiping, Internal Medicine.

Reply Date: 2005/04/06

More Info

Understanding blood in stool can be a concerning issue, and it's important to approach it with a thorough understanding of potential causes and implications for your health. Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing rectal bleeding intermittently since the age of 24, with an increase in frequency over the past year and a half. This is certainly a situation that warrants further investigation.

Firstly, the presence of blood in the stool can arise from various sources within the gastrointestinal tract. The bright red color of the blood you describe typically indicates that the bleeding is occurring in the lower gastrointestinal tract, such as the rectum or colon. Common causes of bright red blood in stool include hemorrhoids, anal fissures, diverticular disease, and colorectal polyps. However, more serious conditions, such as colorectal cancer, can also present with similar symptoms.

Given your history of intermittent blood in the stool, it is crucial to consider the following:
1. Hemorrhoids: These are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus that can cause bleeding, especially during bowel movements. They are often associated with straining, constipation, or prolonged sitting.

2. Anal Fissures: These are small tears in the lining of the anus, which can occur due to passing hard stools. They can cause sharp pain and bleeding during bowel movements.

3. Diverticular Disease: This condition involves the formation of small pouches in the colon wall, which can become inflamed or infected, leading to bleeding.

4. Colorectal Polyps: These are growths on the inner lining of the colon that can bleed. Some types of polyps can develop into cancer over time.

5. Colorectal Cancer: While you mentioned that you have not experienced significant stomach pain and that the blood is bright red, it is still essential to rule out this possibility, especially given the increase in frequency of your symptoms.

The fact that you have experienced changes in your bowel habits, such as the presence of blood without any stool, is particularly concerning. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional who can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies such as a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows a doctor to examine the inner lining of your colon and rectum, and it can help identify any abnormalities, including polyps or tumors.

In terms of your concern about the likelihood of colorectal cancer, it is important to note that while your symptoms could be indicative of benign conditions, the increasing frequency and nature of your symptoms necessitate a proactive approach. Early detection of colorectal cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes, so it is advisable not to delay seeking medical attention.

In summary, while there are several potential causes for blood in your stool, it is crucial to undergo a comprehensive evaluation to determine the underlying issue. Do not hesitate to reach out to a gastroenterologist or your primary care physician to discuss your symptoms in detail and to arrange for appropriate diagnostic testing. Taking these steps will help ensure that any serious conditions are identified and managed promptly.

Similar Q&A

Blood in Stool: What You Need to Know and Do

Dear Doctor, Yesterday, I noticed blood in my stool and also found blood on the toilet paper after wiping. Could you please advise me on how to proceed? I would be very grateful.

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the presence of blood in the stool may be caused by hemorrhoids, anal fissures, inflammatory bowel disease, tumors, polyps, or diverticular bleeding, with hemorrhoidal bleeding being the most common. It is advisable to consume more fruits, vegetables, and fluids to maintai...

Understanding Blood in Stool: Potential Causes and Health Risks

I have recently experienced occasional blood in my stool, and there is some pain during bowel movements. If this is due to hemorrhoids, colorectal cancer, or polyps, what impact could it have on my health if I don't see a doctor? Additionally, my menstrual flow has decreased...

Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, Green Winter: The most common causes of bloody stools may include hemorrhoids, polyps, enteritis, tumors, or coagulation disorders, so further examination is advisable.

Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Young Adults

Hello doctor, I'm a 20-year-old male. I've felt that my gastrointestinal health hasn't been great since I was young. I often experience flatulence and belching, and my bowel movements have been irregular, occurring only every 4 to 5 days. Recently, I've been d...

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the presence of blood on the surface of stool is commonly seen in young individuals due to anal fissures and hemorrhoids. Other potential causes include colitis, colorectal cancer, and polyps. It is advisable to increase fiber and fluid intake to develop good bowel habits....

Understanding the Causes of Blood in Stool: A Gastroenterology Perspective

Doctor, I have experienced blood in my stool about 1.5 years ago, but I didn't dare to mention it at that time. Since then, I have had approximately 5 or 6 episodes of blood in my stool. What could be the possible causes? I also spend a long time in the bathroom (the longest...

Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the presence of blood in the stool is mostly caused by bleeding from the anus, rectum, or even higher up from the descending colon. Given your history of constipation, it is more likely to be due to hemorrhoidal bleeding. However, I still recommend that you visit a gastroe...