Abdominal Pain and Blood in Stool: Should You Worry?

Q: Abdominal Pain and Blood in Stool: Should You Worry?

Hello： The diagnostic accuracy of barium enema for anal and rectal lesions is relatively poor. <br>Based on your symptoms, the presence of blood in the stool likely originates from the anal or rectal area, and your bowel habits may be a result of functional disorders. <br>It is r

Abdominal pain with bloody stools?

I previously underwent a barium enema, and the doctor said there were no abnormalities.
However, I noticed a small amount of blood in my stool two days ago, and my stools are typically ribbon-like, with noticeable blood only that one time.
I sometimes experience difficulty with bowel movements, and I have lower abdominal pain when my stools are hard.
The doctor has prescribed me Normacol granules, but I occasionally experience diarrhea.
Should I be concerned about colorectal cancer? What could my symptoms indicate?

Xiao Wang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/12/02

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: The diagnostic accuracy of barium enema for anal and rectal lesions is relatively poor.
Based on your symptoms, the presence of blood in the stool likely originates from the anal or rectal area, and your bowel habits may be a result of functional disorders.
It is recommended that you consult a colorectal surgeon.
Wishing you peace and good health.
Dr.
Chen Qifeng, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2014/12/02

More Info

When it comes to abdominal pain and the presence of blood in the stool, it is understandable to feel concerned, especially given your history of gastrointestinal issues. While I cannot provide a definitive diagnosis, I can offer some insights based on your symptoms and medical history.

Firstly, the presence of blood in the stool can be alarming, and it is essential to consider various potential causes. The fact that you have previously undergone a barium enema and were told that there were no significant abnormalities is reassuring. However, the appearance of blood, even if it is just a small amount, warrants further investigation. Blood in the stool can arise from several sources within the gastrointestinal tract, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, diverticular disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and, in more serious cases, colorectal cancer.

Given your description of having hard stools and experiencing abdominal pain, it is possible that hemorrhoids or anal fissures could be contributing to the bleeding. These conditions are often associated with straining during bowel movements, which can lead to small tears in the anal lining or swollen veins that can bleed. The fact that your stools are sometimes hard and you experience discomfort suggests that constipation may be a recurring issue for you.

The medication you mentioned, Normacol, is a bulk-forming laxative that can help soften stools and promote regular bowel movements. However, if you are experiencing diarrhea at times, it may be worth discussing with your doctor whether the dosage is appropriate or if an adjustment is needed. It is crucial to find a balance that allows for regular, comfortable bowel movements without leading to diarrhea.

Regarding your concern about colorectal cancer, while it is a possibility, especially in individuals over the age of 50 or those with a family history of the disease, it is essential to consider other factors. Symptoms such as significant changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, persistent abdominal pain, or changes in the appearance of your stool (such as narrow stools) should prompt further evaluation. Since you have already had a barium enema, it might be beneficial to discuss with your healthcare provider the possibility of a colonoscopy, which is a more direct method of visualizing the colon and can help rule out or confirm any serious conditions.

In summary, while your symptoms could be related to benign conditions like hemorrhoids or constipation, the presence of blood in the stool should not be ignored. It is advisable to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, who can assess your symptoms in the context of your overall health and history. If the bleeding persists, worsens, or if you develop new symptoms, seeking prompt medical attention is crucial. Regular follow-ups and appropriate screenings based on your age and risk factors are essential for early detection and management of any potential gastrointestinal issues.

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