Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Attention - Surgery

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Seeing blood in your stool can be alarming, and it's understandable that you're feeling worried. Blood in the stool can arise from various causes, some of which may be benign, while others could indicate a more serious condition. Here’s a breakdown of potential causes and when you should seek medical attention.


Possible Causes of Blood in Stool
1. Hemorrhoids: These are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus that can cause bleeding, especially during bowel movements. The blood is usually bright red and may be seen on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl.

2. Anal Fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus can occur due to passing hard stools. This can lead to pain and bleeding during bowel movements.

3. Gastrointestinal Infections: Infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites can lead to inflammation of the intestines, resulting in bloody diarrhea.

4. Diverticulosis: This condition involves the formation of small pouches in the colon wall, which can become inflamed or bleed.

5. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can cause chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to blood in the stool.

6. Polyps or Colorectal Cancer: Polyps are growths on the inner lining of the colon that can bleed. Some polyps can develop into cancer, which may also present with blood in the stool.

7. Peptic Ulcers: Ulcers in the stomach or the first part of the small intestine can bleed and result in dark, tarry stools.


When to Seek Medical Attention
You should seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Significant or Persistent Bleeding: If the blood is bright red and you see a lot of it, or if it persists over several bowel movements.

- Accompanying Symptoms: If you have other symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, fever, dizziness, or fainting, you should seek immediate care.

- Changes in Bowel Habits: If you notice a significant change in your bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, along with the blood.

- History of Gastrointestinal Issues: If you have a history of gastrointestinal diseases or conditions that could predispose you to bleeding.


Which Specialist to See
For blood in your stool, you would typically start by seeing a gastroenterologist. This specialist focuses on the digestive system and can perform necessary diagnostic tests, such as a colonoscopy, to determine the cause of the bleeding.


Conclusion
While blood in your stool can be concerning, many causes are treatable. It's crucial to monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention promptly, especially if the bleeding is significant or accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to better outcomes, so don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance.