Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

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Blood in stool can be a concerning symptom, and understanding its potential causes is crucial for determining when to seek medical help. The presence of blood in your stool, especially if accompanied by pain, can indicate a variety of conditions, some of which may require immediate attention.


Possible Causes of Blood in Stool
1. Hemorrhoids: One of the most common causes of bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the stool is hemorrhoids. These are swollen veins in the rectum or anus that can bleed during bowel movements, especially if straining occurs. Given that you mentioned you have pain and blood when wiping, hemorrhoids could be a likely cause.

2. Anal Fissures: These are small tears in the lining of the anus, often caused by passing hard stools. They can lead to sharp pain during bowel movements and may also cause bleeding. The blood is usually bright red and may be seen on the stool or toilet paper.

3. Diverticular Disease: Diverticulosis, which involves the formation of small pouches in the colon wall, can lead to diverticulitis if these pouches become inflamed. This condition can cause abdominal pain and bleeding.

4. Gastrointestinal Infections: Certain infections can cause inflammation of the intestines, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and blood in the stool.
5. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can cause chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms including abdominal pain, diarrhea, and blood in the stool.

6. Polyps or Colorectal Cancer: While less common, polyps (growths on the lining of the colon) can bleed and may be a precursor to colorectal cancer. Blood in the stool, especially if it is dark or tarry, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.


When to Seek Help
You should seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent or Severe Symptoms: If the blood in your stool continues or if you have severe pain, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider.

- Changes in Bowel Habits: Any significant changes in your bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, should be discussed with a doctor.

- Accompanying Symptoms: If you experience other symptoms like fever, weight loss, or fatigue, these could indicate a more serious condition.

- Bright Red Blood: While bright red blood can often indicate a less serious issue like hemorrhoids, it’s still important to have it evaluated, especially if it persists.


Conclusion
Given your description of having blood in your stool and pain, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend tests such as a colonoscopy or imaging studies to determine the exact cause of your symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential, especially if there is a risk of a more serious underlying condition.
In the meantime, ensure you maintain a diet rich in fiber to help prevent constipation, which can exacerbate conditions like hemorrhoids and anal fissures. Staying hydrated and avoiding straining during bowel movements can also be beneficial.