Right Lower Abdominal Pain and Rectal Bleeding - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Right Lower Abdominal Pain and Rectal Bleeding

Hello： Please visit the colorectal surgery department. <br>Wishing you safety and health. <br>Dr. <br>Chen Qi-Feng, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Right lower abdominal pain and rectal bleeding?

Hello, doctor.
Recently, I've been experiencing rectal bleeding, the bright red kind.
A while ago, I had pain in my anus and initially thought it was hemorrhoids.
I took hemorrhoid medication, which helped reduce the pain and bleeding, and I felt a bit better.
However, after stopping the medication, I've been having occasional pain in my lower right abdomen, which also hurts when I press on it.
Additionally, I'm experiencing rectal bleeding again, but there's no pain in the anus, although there are blood clots, and they are bright red.
Which department should I consult? Should I go to a general clinic first and then get a referral to a larger hospital? Also, as a female, should I first visit a gynecologist at a general clinic? Thank you.

Amy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/09/07

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: Please visit the colorectal surgery department.
Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Chen Qi-Feng, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2014/09/07

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing some concerning symptoms, including rectal bleeding and right lower abdominal pain. These symptoms can be indicative of several conditions, and it's important to address them promptly.

First, let's break down your symptoms. The presence of bright red blood in your stool can be associated with several issues, including hemorrhoids (which you've already considered), anal fissures, diverticular disease, or even more serious conditions like colorectal polyps or cancer. The fact that you mentioned having pain in your right lower abdomen, along with the rectal bleeding, adds another layer of complexity to your situation.

Given that you have already tried treating what you thought was hemorrhoids with some success, it’s possible that your symptoms are related to that condition. However, the new onset of abdominal pain and the recurrence of rectal bleeding warrant further investigation. The pain in your right lower abdomen could be related to gastrointestinal issues, such as appendicitis, especially if the pain is localized and worsens with movement or pressure. Other possibilities include conditions like ovarian cysts or ectopic pregnancy, which are more relevant to women.

In terms of where to seek help, it is advisable to start with a primary care physician or a gastroenterologist. A primary care doctor can perform an initial evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly some basic tests. If they suspect a more serious condition, they can refer you to a specialist, such as a gastroenterologist, who can perform more specific tests, including a colonoscopy, to visualize the inside of your colon and rectum.

If you are considering seeing a gynecologist, it may be appropriate if you suspect that your symptoms could be related to a gynecological issue, such as ovarian problems. However, given your primary symptoms of rectal bleeding and abdominal pain, starting with a gastroenterologist or your primary care physician would likely be the most direct route to address your concerns.

In the meantime, keep track of your symptoms, including any changes in your bowel habits, the frequency and amount of bleeding, and any associated symptoms like fever, weight loss, or changes in appetite. This information will be valuable for your healthcare provider in determining the next steps for diagnosis and treatment.

In summary, while hemorrhoids could explain some of your symptoms, the combination of rectal bleeding and abdominal pain requires a thorough evaluation to rule out more serious conditions. Start with a primary care physician or a gastroenterologist for a comprehensive assessment. Early intervention is key to managing any potential underlying issues effectively.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Symptoms and Potential Causes

I have been experiencing rectal bleeding for the past 1 to 2 days, along with pain during bowel movements. Sometimes, there is also itching around the anus, and I occasionally feel pain in the lower right abdomen. Could this be colorectal cancer?

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery
Hello: Blood in the stool is considered an abnormal symptom and may indicate a range of conditions, from common hemorrhoids to more serious gastrointestinal diseases. Based on your description, hemorrhoidal bleeding is the most likely cause; however, the accompanying pain in the ...

Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns

Dear Doctor, I may have written a bit too much, but I hope you can patiently read through my previous symptoms. About two to three weeks ago, I started experiencing diarrhea (three to four times a day), often feeling a dull ache and bloating in my lower abdomen, as if my belt wa...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Right lower abdominal pain is often associated with colonic disorders. It is recommended to undergo a colon examination. Best regards, Dr. Chen Qifeng, Taoyuan General Hospital, Department of Health.

Understanding Rectal Bleeding and Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Help

Hello doctor, I have a female friend who experiences pain on the right side of her abdomen, which seems to be near the kidney area. The pain lasts for about an hour and then goes away, but it recurs after a month. She also notices blood when wiping after a bowel movement, althoug...

Dr. Hou Yongji reply Surgery
Hello: For recurrent abdominal pain on the right side, please first consult a urologist to rule out pain caused by kidney stones. If the pain is associated with menstrual periods, please see a gynecologist. If both of these specialties do not identify any issues, please consult a...

Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Symptoms

I occasionally experience pain in the lower right abdomen, and for the past few months, there has been blood in my stool. Additionally, I feel pain in the anus during bowel movements and have a decreased appetite.

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Frequent pain in the lower right abdomen, blood in the stool, and anal pain. It is recommended to undergo a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, and to follow up with a gastroenterology clinic.