Blood in Stool: What Red Strands Could Mean - Surgery

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There are red streaks in the stool?


Hello Dr.
Hou, I recently had two bowel movements (about a week apart) where I noticed what seemed to be a few strands of blood on my golden-yellow stool (I'm not entirely sure, but it was something red).
The first time there was one strand, and today there were about 4-5 very small strands, approximately 1mm in size, with most being point-like, and only one was longer (about 4-5 cm).
However, today's stool was quite large, about 15-20 cm in width, with the thickest part being around 6-7 cm.
I did not notice any blood when wiping.
Over the past two days, I have eaten spicy food, carrots, and beef soup.
Could you please advise what this might indicate? I am very concerned.
Thank you.

smallrayray, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/02/24

Dr. Hou Yongji reply Surgery


The diagnosis of anal and rectal diseases requires not only a medical history but also visual inspection, digital examination, and even endoscopic evaluation.
Therefore, please seek a nearby colorectal specialist for diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible.
Attached is a list of specialists.

Reply Date: 2010/02/24

More Info


When it comes to the presence of red strands or blood in your stool, it is understandable to feel concerned. The appearance of blood in your stool can be indicative of various conditions, some of which may require medical attention. Based on your description, there are several potential causes for the red strands you observed.

1. Hemorrhoids: One of the most common causes of blood in the stool, especially if it is bright red, is hemorrhoids. These are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus that can bleed during bowel movements, often resulting in small amounts of bright red blood on the stool or toilet paper. Given that you mentioned the size and consistency of your stool, if it was particularly hard or large, it could have caused irritation or trauma to the anal area, leading to bleeding.

2. Anal Fissures: Similar to hemorrhoids, anal fissures are small tears in the lining of the anus that can occur due to passing large or hard stools. This can also result in bright red blood, typically seen on the surface of the stool or on toilet paper after wiping.

3. Gastrointestinal Conditions: Other gastrointestinal issues, such as diverticulosis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or colorectal polyps, can also cause bleeding. These conditions may present with other symptoms, such as abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or weight loss. If the blood is darker or mixed with the stool, it may indicate bleeding from higher up in the gastrointestinal tract, such as the stomach or small intestine.

4. Dietary Factors: You mentioned consuming spicy foods, carrots, and beef broth. While these foods are generally not known to cause bleeding, certain foods can sometimes cause changes in stool color or consistency. For example, beets can cause red stools, and spicy foods can irritate the gastrointestinal tract in some individuals. However, if the blood is indeed from a source within your body, dietary changes alone would not typically be the cause.

5. Infections: Certain infections, particularly those affecting the gastrointestinal tract, can lead to bloody stools. Bacterial infections, such as those caused by E. coli or Salmonella, can cause diarrhea with blood. If you experience additional symptoms like fever, severe abdominal pain, or diarrhea, it is important to seek medical attention.

Given your symptoms, it is crucial to monitor the situation closely. If the bleeding persists, increases in volume, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms (such as severe pain, fever, or changes in bowel habits), you should seek medical evaluation promptly. A healthcare provider may recommend a physical examination, and possibly further diagnostic tests such as a colonoscopy, to determine the underlying cause of the bleeding.

In summary, while the presence of red strands in your stool can be alarming, it is essential to consider the context and associated symptoms. Conditions like hemorrhoids and anal fissures are common and often benign, but other gastrointestinal issues may require more thorough investigation. It is always best to err on the side of caution and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your health.

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