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

Could you please provide more details or specify your question?

I would like to ask about a problem related to blood in my stool.
Since this afternoon, I have noticed bleeding when using the restroom, and my anus feels a bit painful.
However, the amount of bleeding seems to be more than before.
I have occasionally experienced this issue in the past, and tonight when I went to the bathroom, I noticed some pain as well.
This time, the bleeding is more significant, and the blood in my stool appears to be a lighter brown color, more vivid and bright red.
I would like to know what symptoms this might indicate and whether I need to seek medical attention.
Additionally, I have heard that there is a distinction between blood mixed in the stool and blood on the outside.
How can I differentiate between the two? Thank you, doctor.

Ruo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/10/06

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, in young individuals, rectal bleeding is most commonly caused by hemorrhoids, especially when the blood is bright red, which usually indicates that it is separate from the stool.
Accompanying anal pain is often due to inflammation of the hemorrhoids.
If there are concerns, a consultation with a colorectal surgeon for a sigmoidoscopy may be advisable.
Wishing you good health, Dr.
Chen Chih-Feng, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health.

Reply Date: 2008/10/06

More Info

Blood in stool, or hematochezia, can be a concerning symptom that warrants careful evaluation. The presence of blood in your stool, especially if accompanied by pain, can indicate a variety of underlying conditions, some of which may require immediate medical attention.

Symptoms and Causes
1. Types of Blood in Stool:
- Bright Red Blood: This often indicates bleeding from the lower gastrointestinal tract, such as the rectum or anus. Conditions like hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or diverticular disease can cause bright red blood.

- Dark Red or Maroon Blood: This may suggest bleeding from higher up in the gastrointestinal tract, such as the colon or small intestine.

- Black, Tarry Stools: This is indicative of upper gastrointestinal bleeding, often from sources like peptic ulcers or esophageal varices.

2. Common Causes:
- Hemorrhoids: Swollen veins in the rectum or anus that can bleed during bowel movements.

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

- Diverticulosis: Pouches that can form in the colon wall and may bleed.

- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause significant inflammation and bleeding.

- Colorectal Polyps or Cancer: Abnormal growths in the colon can lead to bleeding.

When to Seek Help
Given your description of increased bleeding and pain, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. Here are some guidelines on when to see a doctor:
- Increased Volume of Blood: If you notice a significant increase in the amount of blood compared to previous episodes, this is a red flag.

- Accompanying Symptoms: If you experience additional symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, or changes in bowel habits, you should seek immediate care.

- Duration of Symptoms: If the bleeding persists or worsens over a few days, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.

Diagnostic Evaluation
When you visit a healthcare provider, they may perform several evaluations, including:
- Physical Examination: A thorough examination to check for external signs of hemorrhoids or fissures.

- Digital Rectal Exam: This can help assess for hemorrhoids or other abnormalities.

- Colonoscopy: If indicated, this procedure allows direct visualization of the colon and rectum to identify sources of bleeding.

- Blood Tests: To check for anemia or other underlying conditions.

Conclusion
In summary, while some causes of blood in the stool may be benign, the combination of increased bleeding and pain suggests that it is essential to seek medical evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can help address any serious conditions and alleviate your symptoms. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to health concerns, especially those involving gastrointestinal bleeding.

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