Sticky Stool and Blood: When to Seek Medical Advice

Regarding the previous inquiry about the stool being sticky and having some blood, there has been no blood in the stool recently?

Hello, doctor.
I am the one who asked about having sticky stools with some blood two days ago.
The stools have remained sticky over the past two days, but there has been no blood since that one instance.
I would like to ask you: 1.
Since there has been no blood in the last two bowel movements, but the tissue still appears sticky when I wipe, do I still need to undergo a colonoscopy? 2.
If there is a growth, will it continuously cause bleeding that increases, or could the bleeding also stop? Thank you for your professional response!

Chen Sheng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/05

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, dyspepsia or gastroenteritis may result in sticky stools.
As for the bleeding, it could be caused by hemorrhoids.
It is recommended to avoid oily, dairy, and irritating foods.
If there is no improvement, you may consult a colorectal surgeon or a gastroenterologist at the Taoyuan Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chi-Feng Chen, Attending Physician, Department of Gastroenterology.

Reply Date: 2015/10/05

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding your recent bowel movements and the presence of sticky stool and blood. It's understandable to be concerned about these symptoms, and I’m here to help clarify when you should seek medical advice.

1. Sticky Stool and Blood: The presence of sticky stool can be attributed to several factors, including dietary choices, hydration levels, and gastrointestinal health. Sticky stools often indicate that the stool is not being formed properly, which can be due to a lack of fiber in your diet or dehydration. The fact that you experienced blood in your stool once but have not seen it again in subsequent bowel movements is a positive sign. However, the persistence of sticky stool warrants attention. If the stool remains sticky and you experience any discomfort, changes in bowel habits, or other gastrointestinal symptoms, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional. A colonoscopy may not be immediately necessary if there are no other alarming symptoms, but your doctor may recommend it based on your overall health and any additional symptoms you may present.

2. Bleeding Concerns: If you were to develop a situation where you experience continuous bleeding, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. The nature of gastrointestinal bleeding can vary; it can be intermittent or continuous, and the amount of blood can fluctuate. Sometimes, bleeding may stop on its own, but this does not mean that the underlying issue has resolved. Conditions such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, diverticulosis, or more serious issues like polyps or colorectal cancer can cause bleeding. If you notice an increase in the amount of blood or if it becomes a regular occurrence, you should definitely seek medical advice.
In summary, while the absence of blood in your recent bowel movements is reassuring, the persistence of sticky stool is something to monitor. If you experience any additional symptoms such as abdominal pain, changes in appetite, weight loss, or if the sticky stool continues, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider. They may recommend further evaluation, including a colonoscopy, to rule out any serious conditions.

Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet rich in fiber, staying hydrated, and monitoring your bowel habits can help improve stool consistency. If you have any dietary restrictions or underlying health conditions, discussing these with your doctor can provide tailored advice to improve your gastrointestinal health.

Always remember, when in doubt about your health, it’s better to err on the side of caution and consult a healthcare professional. Your health and peace of mind are paramount. Thank you for reaching out, and I hope this information helps you!

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