Abnormal Bowel Movements and Blood in Stool: What to Know

Q: Abnormal Bowel Movements and Blood in Stool: What to Know

Hello： Whether it is hemorrhoids, polyps, or even colitis, there may be blood streaks after bowel movements. <br>It is recommended that if the condition does not improve, you should consult a physician to evaluate what kind of examination should be performed. <br>Changhua Hospita

Abnormal bowel movements with blood in the stool?

Hello Doctor, in the past few months, I have noticed that my stools have become thinner, and I experience constipation almost one to two days a week.
After being constipated, I sometimes have diarrhea.
However, there are also times when my bowel movements are normal.
Recently, I noticed "twice" that there were about one centimeter long red streaks of blood on the toilet paper after wiping, but this does not happen frequently, and it was just that small streak.
After that, there was no blood during subsequent wiping.
After using the restroom, I feel a slight tingling sensation around the anus, but it is not painful.
I do not have abdominal pain or any other symptoms.
I am unsure if this is hemorrhoids, polyps, or some other concerning condition.
Would a colonoscopy be necessary for examination, or could this be treated with medication? Thank you.

danxin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/08/30

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: Whether it is hemorrhoids, polyps, or even colitis, there may be blood streaks after bowel movements.
It is recommended that if the condition does not improve, you should consult a physician to evaluate what kind of examination should be performed.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2013/08/30

More Info

Understanding abnormal bowel movements and the presence of blood in stool is crucial for identifying potential underlying health issues. Based on the symptoms you've described—narrow stools, intermittent constipation followed by diarrhea, and the occasional presence of bright red blood on toilet paper—there are several possibilities to consider.

Firstly, the narrowing of your stools can be indicative of several conditions. In many cases, particularly when accompanied by blood, it can suggest the presence of an obstruction or a mass in the colon. This could be due to conditions such as colorectal polyps, which are benign growths that can develop into cancer over time, or even colorectal cancer itself. However, it is essential to note that not all cases of narrow stools indicate a severe condition; dietary factors, such as low fiber intake, can also lead to changes in stool shape and consistency.

The presence of bright red blood on toilet paper, especially if it is only a small amount and not mixed with the stool, often suggests that the source of bleeding is likely to be in the lower gastrointestinal tract, such as the rectum or anus. Common causes of this type of bleeding include hemorrhoids (or piles), which are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus that can cause discomfort and bleeding, particularly during bowel movements. Anal fissures, which are small tears in the lining of the anus, can also lead to similar symptoms, including a sharp pain during bowel movements and minor bleeding.

Given that you have experienced these symptoms intermittently, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation. A healthcare provider may recommend a digital rectal examination to assess for hemorrhoids or fissures. However, if the symptoms persist or if there are any changes in your bowel habits, such as increased frequency of blood, changes in stool consistency, or unexplained weight loss, a colonoscopy may be warranted. A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows a doctor to examine the inner lining of your large intestine (colon) and rectum, helping to identify any abnormalities such as polyps, inflammation, or tumors.

In terms of treatment, if hemorrhoids or anal fissures are diagnosed, conservative management often includes dietary modifications (increasing fiber intake), topical treatments, and sometimes sitz baths to alleviate discomfort. However, if polyps or other significant findings are discovered during a colonoscopy, further treatment may be necessary, which could include removal of the polyps or additional interventions based on the findings.

In summary, while your symptoms could be attributed to benign conditions such as hemorrhoids or dietary factors, the presence of blood and changes in bowel habits warrant a thorough evaluation. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide a comprehensive assessment and guide you through the necessary diagnostic steps. Early detection and intervention are key to managing any potential issues effectively.

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