Blood in Stool and Bloating: What You Need to Know - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Blood in the stool and abdominal distension?

I have been experiencing gastrointestinal bloating and diarrhea for almost two weeks.
Yesterday, I went to the hospital for an examination, and the doctor used an X-ray, which showed a lot of air in my gastrointestinal tract.
The doctor mentioned that it seems to be irritable bowel syndrome rather than colon cancer.
I was prescribed piperilate ethobromide and dimethylpolysiloxane, along with a probiotic called Miyairii butyricum chloride.
However, today when I had a bowel movement, I noticed some reddish blood in my stool, which was golden yellow and unformed, with some fluffy bits.
It seemed like there was a bit of red mixed in, but it wasn't very concentrated; it looked evenly distributed and was hard to notice unless I looked closely.
I have been feeling a bit constipated today.
Additionally, during my previous bowel movements, I felt a burning sensation in my anus, and there was blood a few times, but it disappeared after a while.
I am really worried because my mother passed away from rectal cancer.
Currently, I do not have any weight loss, rebound tenderness, or narrowing of the stool, and my appetite has not decreased.
Can you please tell me what my condition might be? Also, during the X-ray, my entire stomach and other areas appeared in different colors, specifically black, and the left side of my descending colon was also black.
The doctor said that my gastrointestinal motility is too fast, and the black areas are just air, but now I see blood! What do you think my symptoms indicate? Thank you.
I am 17 years old, and my mother passed away from rectal cancer.

ALLEN, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/16

Dr. Cai Jinji reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

If there is blood, it is recommended to consult a colorectal surgeon for further evaluation and examination.

Reply Date: 2016/02/16

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a concerning combination of gastrointestinal symptoms, including bloating, diarrhea, and the presence of blood in your stool. Given your family history of rectal cancer, it's understandable that you are feeling anxious about these symptoms. Let's break down your situation and discuss what you might need to know.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Bloating and Diarrhea: These symptoms can be indicative of several gastrointestinal issues, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which your doctor seems to suspect based on the X-ray findings. IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits. It can lead to bloating and diarrhea, often triggered by stress, diet, or other factors.

2. Blood in Stool: The presence of blood in your stool, even if it appears as a small amount or is mixed with the stool, is a symptom that should not be ignored. Blood can indicate several conditions, ranging from benign issues like hemorrhoids or anal fissures to more serious conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or colorectal cancer. Given your mother's history of rectal cancer, this symptom warrants further investigation.

3. Burning Sensation: The burning sensation during bowel movements could be related to several factors, including irritation from diarrhea, hemorrhoids, or anal fissures. If the stool is loose or watery, it can irritate the anal area, leading to discomfort.

Next Steps
1. Follow-Up with Your Doctor: It is crucial to communicate your new symptoms, especially the blood in your stool, to your healthcare provider. They may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as a colonoscopy, to evaluate the condition of your colon and rectum more thoroughly. This is especially important given your family history.

2. Dietary Considerations: While waiting for further evaluation, consider keeping a food diary to identify any potential dietary triggers for your symptoms. Certain foods can exacerbate IBS symptoms, and a diet low in FODMAPs (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols) may help alleviate bloating and diarrhea.

3. Medication Review: You mentioned being prescribed piperilate ethobromide and dimethicone, which are intended to help with gastrointestinal symptoms. Ensure you are taking these medications as directed and discuss any concerns about their effectiveness with your doctor.

4. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including the frequency and appearance of blood in your stool, any changes in bowel habits, and any new symptoms that may arise. This information will be valuable for your healthcare provider.

5. Mental Health Considerations: Given the stress of your symptoms and family history, consider discussing your mental health with a professional. Anxiety about health can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms, and managing stress may help improve your overall well-being.

Conclusion
While your symptoms may be related to a functional gastrointestinal disorder like IBS, the presence of blood in your stool is a significant concern that should be evaluated promptly. Make sure to follow up with your healthcare provider, communicate all your symptoms, and advocate for the necessary tests to rule out any serious conditions. Your health is paramount, and being proactive about your symptoms is the best course of action.

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