Persistent Diarrhea and Blood in Stool: Your Symptoms

The stool has not been formed for 1 to 2 months?

Symptoms: I have been experiencing diarrhea every morning for the past 1 to 2 months.
Today, after having a bowel movement, there was fresh blood on the toilet paper.
I visited a gastroenterology clinic five months ago, and they diagnosed me with internal hemorrhoids, but at that time, my bowel movements were still formed.
I typically have bowel movements every morning and after dinner in the evening.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/03

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Based on your description, it seems more like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
It is generally recommended to start with a light diet and avoid smoking and alcohol.
Dairy products, as well as coffee and tea, should also be avoided.
If symptoms do not improve, it may be necessary to consult a physician for medication treatment.
If medication is ineffective, a colonoscopy may be required to rule out the possibility of Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.

Reply Date: 2015/09/03

More Info

Persistent diarrhea accompanied by blood in the stool is a concerning symptom that warrants immediate medical attention. Given your history of having been diagnosed with internal hemorrhoids, it is essential to understand that while hemorrhoids can cause bleeding, the presence of persistent diarrhea and fresh blood may indicate other underlying issues that need to be evaluated.

Firstly, let’s discuss the potential causes of your symptoms. Diarrhea lasting for 1-2 months can be attributed to various factors, including infections (viral, bacterial, or parasitic), inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, food intolerances, or even certain medications. The presence of blood in the stool, especially if it is bright red, often suggests that the bleeding is occurring in the lower gastrointestinal tract, which could be due to hemorrhoids, but it could also indicate more serious conditions such as diverticulosis, colorectal polyps, or even colorectal cancer, particularly if you are over the age of 50 or have a family history of gastrointestinal diseases.

Given your situation, it is crucial to take the following steps:
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: You should consult a healthcare provider as soon as possible. A gastroenterologist would be the most appropriate specialist to evaluate your symptoms. They may recommend diagnostic tests such as a colonoscopy, which allows for direct visualization of the colon and rectum, and can help identify the source of bleeding.

2. Document Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including the frequency and consistency of your diarrhea, the appearance of the blood (e.g., bright red, dark, mixed with stool), any associated symptoms (such as abdominal pain, weight loss, fever, or changes in appetite), and any dietary changes or medications you have started recently. This information will be valuable for your healthcare provider.

3. Avoid Self-Diagnosis: While it is tempting to search for answers online, self-diagnosis can lead to unnecessary anxiety and may delay appropriate treatment. Rely on professional medical advice.

4. Dietary Considerations: While awaiting your appointment, consider keeping a food diary to identify any potential triggers for your diarrhea. Avoiding high-fat, spicy, or heavily processed foods may help alleviate some symptoms. Staying hydrated is also crucial, especially if you are experiencing diarrhea.

5. Follow-Up on Previous Diagnoses: Since you have a history of internal hemorrhoids, it is important to discuss this with your doctor. They may perform a physical examination and possibly recommend treatments to manage your hemorrhoids, which could include lifestyle modifications, topical treatments, or in some cases, surgical options.

In summary, persistent diarrhea and blood in the stool are symptoms that should not be ignored. They can indicate a range of gastrointestinal issues, some of which may require urgent intervention. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide a thorough evaluation and appropriate management based on your specific situation. Remember, early diagnosis and treatment are key to addressing any potential health concerns effectively.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Diarrhea with Blood: Possible Causes and Concerns

I would like to consult Dr. Su regarding my condition. This week, I have been experiencing continuous diarrhea. For the first two to three days, it wasn't too severe, but it has become increasingly frequent. When I wipe with toilet paper, I noticed there seems to be blood in...

Dr. Su Baojia reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
If diarrhea is severe, it may lead to the presence of blood and mucus in the stool due to intestinal inflammation. If you experience this symptom, you should consult a gastroenterologist to identify the underlying cause, as there are many types of colitis, including bacterial ent...

Understanding Chronic Diarrhea with Blood: Causes and Next Steps

Hello, about two years ago, I started experiencing diarrhea, approximately 3 to 5 times a day, occasionally with a bit of blood. Six months ago, I began having persistent bloody stools (the blood is mostly sprayed out, and the stools are watery), occurring about 15 days a month, ...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It is recommended to proceed with a colonoscopy. Best wishes, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health.

Managing Persistent Diarrhea and Abdominal Pain: Key Considerations

Hello Doctor: I suddenly started experiencing persistent diarrhea, lower abdominal pain, headaches, bloating, and belching over the past two days. I've even had to get up multiple times during the night to use the bathroom. On the first day, the stool color was not very dist...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: You can increase your fluid intake and maintain a light diet. If the condition worsens, you may need to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.

Understanding Blood in Stool After Diarrhea: What You Need to Know

I had diarrhea for three consecutive days, and on the second day, it was very watery, with the toilet paper showing a slightly orange-yellow color. On the fourth day, after seeing the doctor, I noticed a small lump of stool that was a different color from the rest, and there was ...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
Frequent bowel movements often lead to hemorrhoidal bleeding. If this is caused by a temporary gastrointestinal issue, a light diet and waiting for recovery is recommended. However, if there is a prolonged pattern of excessive bowel movements resulting in recurrent bleeding, it m...