Blood in Stool: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help

Blood in the stool?

Hello doctor, I noticed blood on the toilet paper during my first bowel movement on February 13th, and there was blood in my stool.
That bowel movement felt a bit painful, and since then, on March 8th, I had blood again during one bowel movement.
For several days, my bowel movements have been very painful, and I had one instance of hard, pellet-like stools.
I increased my water intake, and after a few days, my stools improved and returned to their normal golden color and consistency.
However, today, I suddenly experienced pain again during a bowel movement, and there was blood on the toilet paper and in the stool! Unlike what people usually say about stools becoming thinner, when I feel particularly painful, the stools are large and hard, but sometimes they are okay (I'm not sure if they are thinner).
I initially thought that the blood during painful bowel movements was due to hemorrhoids, but after doing some research, I found that colorectal cancer can also cause painful bowel movements.
I heard that small clinics often misdiagnose colorectal cancer as hemorrhoids.
I am a student and often study late until 11 PM, and I tend to avoid vegetables but eat fruits regularly.
Recently, I had sweet potatoes for lunch for three months.
Thank you for your response! I'm really scared...

Wenwen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/08

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery

Blood in the stool or changes in bowel habits, including alterations in stool shape or consistency, are abnormal gastrointestinal function changes.
These symptoms can range from common hemorrhoids to other serious gastrointestinal diseases.
Based on your description, hemorrhoidal bleeding is the most likely possibility; however, it is still recommended that you visit a gastroenterologist for further evaluation to determine if a colonoscopy is necessary.

Reply Date: 2016/03/08

More Info

When it comes to the presence of blood in stool, it is essential to understand the potential causes, symptoms, and when to seek medical help. Blood in the stool can be alarming, and it is crucial to approach this symptom with caution and awareness.

Causes of Blood in Stool
1. Hemorrhoids: One of the most common causes of blood on toilet paper or in the stool is hemorrhoids. These are swollen veins in the rectum or anus that can bleed, especially during bowel movements. The blood is usually bright red and may be seen on the 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 lead to sharp pain during bowel movements and may also result in bright red blood.

3. Diverticular Disease: Diverticulosis, which involves the formation of small pouches in the colon, can lead to diverticulitis, where these pouches become inflamed or infected. This condition can cause bleeding.

4. Gastrointestinal Infections: Certain infections can cause inflammation and bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to blood in the stool.

5. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can cause significant inflammation and ulceration in the intestines, resulting in blood in the stool.

6. Polyps or Colorectal Cancer: While less common in younger individuals, polyps (growths on the colon lining) can bleed. In some cases, they can be precursors to colorectal cancer, which can also present with blood in the stool.

Symptoms to Watch For
- Pain during bowel movements: If you experience significant pain, especially with hard stools, it may indicate an anal fissure or hemorrhoids.

- Changes in stool consistency: Hard, pellet-like stools can lead to tears and bleeding. It is essential to maintain hydration and a diet rich in fiber to prevent constipation.

- Frequency of bleeding: If bleeding occurs consistently or increases in frequency, it is crucial to seek medical attention.

- Accompanying symptoms: If you experience weight loss, changes in appetite, or persistent abdominal pain, these could be signs of a more serious condition.

When to Seek Help
Given your symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention, especially since you have experienced blood in your stool multiple times and have associated pain. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include:
- Physical Examination: A rectal exam can help identify hemorrhoids or fissures.

- Colonoscopy: This procedure allows for direct visualization of the colon and rectum, helping to identify any polyps, tumors, or areas of inflammation.

- Blood Tests: These can help assess your overall health and check for anemia, which can occur with significant blood loss.

Conclusion
While hemorrhoids and anal fissures are common causes of blood in the stool, it is essential not to dismiss the symptom, especially given your concerns about colorectal cancer. Maintaining a diet high in fiber, staying hydrated, and managing stress can help improve bowel health. However, the best course of action is to consult a healthcare professional who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your needs. Remember, early detection and intervention are key to managing any potential health issues effectively.

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