Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Gastrointestinal Health

Q: Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Gastrointestinal Health

Hello, Miss： Please visit the gastroenterology outpatient clinic for a rectal examination. <br>You may also use stool softeners to reduce bleeding from hemorrhoids or anal fissures. <br>Changhua Hospital cares about your health. <br>Chen Shih-Tien

Bowel movement issues

Hello doctor, I recently noticed that I have fresh red blood in my stool, and my bowel movements have been shaped like a thicker end with a thinner middle.
After I finish, I feel a slight pain in the upper left part of my abdomen, but there is no significant pain in my rectum.
I also see fresh red blood on the toilet paper, and I rarely have normal banana-shaped stools; they are usually small, short, and thin.
Could drinking too much freshly made sweet potato soy milk cause this? If I remember correctly, I also had blood in my stool two to three months ago; could this be due to hemorrhoids?

a81334, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/29

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, Miss: Please visit the gastroenterology outpatient clinic for a rectal examination.
You may also use stool softeners to reduce bleeding from hemorrhoids or anal fissures.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shih-Tien

Reply Date: 2015/12/29

More Info

Blood in the stool can be a concerning symptom that warrants careful evaluation. The presence of bright red blood, especially when it appears on toilet paper or mixed with stool, can indicate several potential issues within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Understanding the causes and implications of blood in the stool is crucial for maintaining gastrointestinal health.

Possible Causes of Blood in Stool
1. Hemorrhoids: One of the most common causes of bright red blood in the stool is hemorrhoids, which are swollen blood vessels in the rectal area. They can bleed during bowel movements, especially if there is straining or constipation involved. The blood is usually bright red and may be seen on toilet paper or on the surface of the stool.

2. Anal Fissures: These are small tears in the lining of the anus, often caused by passing hard stools. They can result in sharp pain during bowel movements and may also cause bright red blood.

3. Diverticular Disease: Diverticulosis, the presence of small pouches in the colon wall, can lead to diverticulitis, which is inflammation of these pouches. This condition can cause bleeding and abdominal pain.

4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation in the GI tract, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and blood in the stool.

5. Colorectal Polyps or Cancer: Although less common, polyps (growths on the colon lining) and colorectal cancer can also present with blood in the stool. This is particularly concerning if there are changes in bowel habits, weight loss, or a family history of colorectal cancer.

6. Gastrointestinal Infections: Certain infections can lead to inflammation and bleeding in the intestines. This is often accompanied by diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and sometimes fever.

Your Symptoms
Based on your description, the presence of bright red blood, along with the change in stool shape (thinner stools), could suggest a few possibilities. The fact that you have experienced this symptom before raises the likelihood of a recurring issue, such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures. However, the change in stool shape and the left upper abdominal pain could indicate a need for further investigation.

Dietary Factors
You mentioned consuming a lot of fresh sweet potato soy milk. While this is generally a healthy choice, excessive consumption of any food can lead to digestive issues, including changes in stool consistency. However, it is unlikely that this specific dietary choice is the sole cause of your symptoms. It is essential to maintain a balanced diet and ensure adequate fiber intake to promote healthy bowel movements.

Recommendations
1. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including the frequency and amount of blood, any associated pain, and changes in bowel habits. This information will be helpful for your healthcare provider.

2. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Given your symptoms, especially the recurrence of blood in the stool and changes in stool shape, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist. They may recommend diagnostic tests such as a colonoscopy to evaluate the colon and rectum for any abnormalities.

3. Dietary Adjustments: While you should not eliminate healthy foods, consider moderating your intake of any one food item and ensure you are consuming a balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and adequate hydration.

4. Avoid Straining: If hemorrhoids or anal fissures are suspected, try to avoid straining during bowel movements. This can be achieved by maintaining a diet high in fiber and staying hydrated.

5. Follow-Up: If you experience worsening symptoms, such as increased pain, significant changes in bowel habits, or additional symptoms like fever or weight loss, seek medical attention promptly.

In conclusion, while blood in the stool can often be attributed to benign causes like hemorrhoids, it is essential to rule out more serious conditions. Early evaluation and intervention can lead to better outcomes and peace of mind regarding your gastrointestinal health.

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