Abdominal Pain After Blood in Stool: Seeking Surgical Advice

I had a bloody stool the night before last, and since yesterday I've been experiencing abdominal pain?

Two nights ago, while I was having a bowel movement, I noticed blood on my fingers while cleaning myself, but there was no obvious blood in the toilet.
After noon yesterday, I started experiencing abdominal pain, but I did not have the urge to defecate.
This continued until this afternoon when I had a bowel movement that was smooth, but I still have abdominal pain.
A couple of weeks ago, I overindulged in food and felt very full, but I believe that should have been digested by now.
Please help me, thank you.

Qiuqiu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/05/26

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Bleeding from the fingers during cleaning may be due to minor hemorrhoidal bleeding, which is not significant enough to be visible in the toilet.
There are many potential causes for abdominal pain, ranging from indigestion to appendicitis or even gastric perforation.
Based on the information you provided, it may be difficult to make a definitive diagnosis.
If the abdominal pain persists for two days without improvement, it is advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Reply Date: 2014/05/26

More Info

Experiencing abdominal pain accompanied by blood in the stool can be concerning and warrants careful evaluation. Given your recent history of gastrointestinal issues, including surgeries, it is essential to approach this situation with caution.

Firstly, the presence of blood on your fingers after a bowel movement, while not visibly apparent in the toilet, could indicate several possibilities. It might be due to hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or even more serious conditions such as diverticular disease or gastrointestinal bleeding. The fact that you did not see significant blood in the toilet does not rule out these conditions, as the blood may have originated from a source higher up in the gastrointestinal tract or may have been minimal.

The abdominal pain you are experiencing could be related to several factors. If you had a recent episode of overeating, it could lead to temporary discomfort due to bloating or distension. However, persistent abdominal pain, especially if it worsens or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits, should not be ignored.

Here are some considerations and recommendations based on your symptoms:
1. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your abdominal pain, noting its location, intensity, and any associated symptoms (e.g., nausea, changes in bowel habits, fever). This information will be helpful for your healthcare provider.

2. Dietary Adjustments: Since you mentioned overeating recently, consider adopting a bland diet for a few days. Foods that are easy to digest, such as bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet), can help soothe your digestive system. Avoid high-fat, spicy, or overly fibrous foods until your symptoms improve.

3. Hydration: Ensure you are well-hydrated, especially if you have experienced any diarrhea. Drinking clear fluids can help maintain hydration and support digestive health.

4. Seek Medical Attention: Given your history of abdominal surgeries and the current symptoms of pain and blood, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They may recommend diagnostic tests such as blood tests, imaging studies (like an ultrasound or CT scan), or a colonoscopy to evaluate the source of the bleeding and abdominal pain.

5. Potential Surgical Evaluation: If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you develop new symptoms such as fever or severe pain, it may be necessary to consider surgical evaluation. Conditions like bowel obstruction, perforation, or significant bleeding may require surgical intervention.

In summary, while some abdominal discomfort can be benign, the combination of abdominal pain and blood in the stool should prompt a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider. Early intervention can be crucial in preventing complications, especially given your surgical history. Please do not hesitate to seek medical advice promptly to ensure your health and well-being.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Abdominal Pain and Blood in Stool: Surgical Insights

Sudden sharp pain in the abdomen, accompanied by light red blood after a bowel movement, and tenderness when pressing around the navel.

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery
I'm sorry, but the information you provided is too fragmented to offer any medical advice. Based on the various symptoms, I recommend that you consult a gastroenterologist or a colorectal surgeon for further evaluation. If your symptoms worsen significantly, please go direct...

Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns After Abdominal Surgery

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my previous surgery for an abdominal cyst. Since the operation, I have been experiencing persistent constipation and pain in the lower left abdomen, accompanied by small pinkish spots. I have consulted many doctors, and each provided diffe...

Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: After abdominal surgery, it is possible to experience intestinal adhesions, which can lead to difficulties in bowel movements, constipation, and abdominal bloating. It is advisable to consume a high-fiber diet, drink plenty of water, and engage in regular exercise to facil...

Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello, Doctor Ke. Last night I experienced abdominal pain and diarrhea. After having a bowel movement, I felt some relief, but I still have a dull ache in my left abdomen. This morning, my stool was thin and long, and there was a piece of bloody mucus attached to it. Additionally...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
Based on your description, it seems more like irritable bowel syndrome with mild bleeding. It is recommended to start with a light diet and maintain a good lifestyle routine. Spicy, irritating, and greasy foods should be avoided. Increasing the intake of dietary fiber can also be...

Understanding Post-Defecation Bleeding: When to Seek Medical Help

Hello Doctor: I sometimes experience constipation, having a bowel movement every two to three days, and occasionally I have abdominal pain followed by diarrhea. Last night was particularly unusual; I was unable to have a bowel movement for about 20 minutes, which led to abdominal...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
Based on your description, it seems more like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). It is recommended to start with a light diet and maintain a good lifestyle routine. Spicy, irritating, and greasy foods should be avoided. If symptoms persist without improvement, you may consult a phys...