Red Water in Stool: Is It Blood or Something Else?

Q: Red Water in Stool: Is It Blood or Something Else?

Hello： This is not just occult blood but rather rectal bleeding. <br>At this age, the most common causes are internal hemorrhoids and anal fissures; however, other conditions are also possible. <br>Please consult a gastroenterologist nearby.

The water under the stool is red?

I would like to ask about my bowel movements.
At the beginning, the stool is soft and does not contain blood, but after sitting in water for a while, I notice that the water underneath the stool is reddish, resembling blood.
Does this count as occult blood in the stool? Why is this happening? This has been occurring for two consecutive days, and my diet has been normal without consuming any foods with red pigments.
Thank you for your clarification!

DM, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/14

Dr. Cai Xingzhi reply Surgery

Hello: This is not just occult blood but rather rectal bleeding.
At this age, the most common causes are internal hemorrhoids and anal fissures; however, other conditions are also possible.
Please consult a gastroenterologist nearby.

Reply Date: 2015/07/14

More Info

When it comes to the presence of red water in the toilet after a bowel movement, it can understandably cause concern. The first thing to clarify is that the appearance of red water does not necessarily indicate the presence of blood. There are several factors that can contribute to this phenomenon, and understanding them can help alleviate anxiety and guide you toward appropriate action.

Firstly, the color of the water in the toilet can be influenced by various factors, including the characteristics of the stool itself and any potential bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. If the stool is soft and does not show any visible blood, it is less likely that the red water is due to blood. However, if the water turns red after the stool has been in contact with it for a while, it could be due to a few reasons:
1. Food and Drink: Certain foods, such as beets, tomatoes, or foods with artificial red coloring, can cause the stool or the water to appear red. If you have consumed any of these recently, it could explain the color change.

2. Hemorrhoids or Anal Fissures: Conditions such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures can cause minor bleeding, which may not be visible in the stool but could tint the water. This is particularly true if you experience any discomfort or pain during bowel movements.

3. Gastrointestinal Bleeding: More serious conditions, such as diverticulosis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or colorectal cancer, can lead to bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. This bleeding can sometimes manifest as red water in the toilet, especially if the bleeding is significant.

4. Water Interaction: The way the stool interacts with the water can also play a role. If there is any bleeding, the blood may mix with the water, causing it to appear red. However, if the stool is intact and there are no visible signs of blood on the stool itself, it may be less likely that this is the cause.

To determine whether the red water is due to blood or another cause, consider the following steps:
- Observation: Monitor your stool and the water closely. If you notice any changes in the color of the stool itself or if you see any visible blood, this warrants further investigation.

- Diet Review: Reflect on your recent diet. If you have consumed foods known to cause red discoloration, this could be the reason.

- Medical Consultation: If the red water persists, or if you experience any additional symptoms such as abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or weight loss, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend tests such as a stool occult blood test or a colonoscopy to rule out any serious conditions.

In summary, while the presence of red water in the toilet can be alarming, it is essential to consider the context, including dietary factors and any accompanying symptoms. If there is any doubt or if symptoms persist, seeking medical advice is the best course of action to ensure your health and peace of mind.

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