Blood in Stool: Symptoms and Possible Causes

Blood in the stool... multiple times?

Two months ago, I experienced severe abdominal pain and diarrhea, and after seeing a doctor, I was diagnosed with gastroenteritis.
Last month, I had blood in my stool and severe abdominal pain, and the doctor diagnosed me with acute enteritis, indicating an issue with my intestines.
Last week, I had a high fever (40 degrees Celsius) along with abdominal pain and diarrhea, and the doctor determined it was a viral infection complicated by gastroenteritis.
After taking medication, I have recently experienced occasional mild abdominal pain or bloating.
Yesterday, after a bowel movement, I noticed blood at the end of my stool (it felt like it dripped out), and there was a bit of blood on the toilet paper, which was slightly sticky, along with a small blood clot.
I would like to inquire about what this issue might be.

Huihui Xiong, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/04

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

It is normal to see mucus and blood streaks in the stool during diarrhea caused by acute gastroenteritis.
This is due to the swelling and inflammation of the intestinal mucosa.
As long as the gastroenteritis is properly treated, these symptoms will resolve after the diarrhea improves.

Reply Date: 2016/01/04

More Info

Blood in stool can be a concerning symptom and may indicate a variety of underlying conditions. Given your recent history of gastrointestinal issues, including acute gastroenteritis and acute enteritis, it is essential to consider several factors when interpreting the presence of blood in your stool.

Firstly, the blood you observed after a bowel movement, especially if it appears bright red and is accompanied by mucus or clots, may suggest that the bleeding is originating from the lower gastrointestinal tract, such as the rectum or colon. This could be due to several causes, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, diverticulosis, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease. Hemorrhoids and anal fissures are common causes of bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the stool, especially if you have experienced diarrhea, which can lead to straining during bowel movements.

Given your recent episodes of severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fever, it is also possible that your gastrointestinal tract is still recovering from the viral infection and inflammation. Inflammation of the intestines can lead to ulceration, which may cause bleeding. If you have been experiencing ongoing abdominal discomfort or bloating, it may indicate that your intestines are still irritated or inflamed.

It is crucial to monitor the amount and frequency of the blood in your stool. If the bleeding is persistent, increases in volume, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, fever, or changes in bowel habits, you should seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare provider may recommend further evaluation, which could include a physical examination, blood tests, stool tests, or imaging studies. In some cases, a colonoscopy may be necessary to visualize the inside of the colon and identify any potential sources of bleeding.

Additionally, given your history of gastrointestinal issues, it may be beneficial to discuss your symptoms with a gastroenterologist. They can provide specialized care and help determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. It is also important to maintain hydration, especially if you have experienced diarrhea, as dehydration can complicate your condition.

In summary, while blood in the stool can be alarming, it is essential to consider the context of your recent gastrointestinal symptoms. The presence of blood may indicate a range of conditions, from benign issues like hemorrhoids to more serious conditions requiring medical intervention. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management of your symptoms.

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