Blood in Stool: Identifying Causes and What to Do

Discovering blood in your stool can be alarming and unsettling. While it can sometimes indicate a minor issue, it can also be a sign of a more serious condition that requires medical attention. Understanding the possible causes of blood in your stool and knowing when to seek help is essential for your health and peace of mind. Let’s explore the common reasons for blood in stool, what they might mean and the steps you should take.

Common Causes of Blood in Stool

1. Hemorrhoids

   • Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. They are a common cause of rectal bleeding and can lead to bright red blood on the toilet paper, in the toilet bowl or on the surface of the stool. Hemorrhoids can be caused by straining during bowel movements, constipation or prolonged sitting.

2. Anal Fissures

   • Anal fissures are small tears in the lining of the anus, often resulting from passing large or hard stools. They can cause pain and bleeding during bowel movements and the blood is usually bright red.

3. Diverticular Disease

   • Diverticula are small pouches that can form in the walls of the colon. When these pouches become inflamed or infected, the condition is known as diverticulitis, which can cause rectal bleeding.

4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

   • Crohn’s Disease: This chronic inflammatory condition can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract and cause symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain and rectal bleeding.

   • Ulcerative Colitis: This form of IBD specifically affects the colon and rectum, leading to inflammation, ulcers and bleeding.

5. Gastrointestinal Infections

   • Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can cause inflammation of the intestines and lead to bloody stools. These infections often present with other symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal cramps and fever.

6. Colorectal Polyps and Cancer

   • Polyps are noncancerous growths in the colon or rectum that can bleed. Over time, some polyps can become cancerous. Colorectal cancer can cause bleeding, which may be visible in the stool or detected through screening tests.

7. Peptic Ulcers

   • Ulcers in the stomach or upper part of the small intestine can bleed, resulting in dark, tarry stools. These ulcers are often caused by long-term use of NSAIDs or an infection with Helicobacter pylori.

When to Seek Medical Help

While occasional minor bleeding may not be an immediate cause for concern, you should seek medical advice if you experience any of the following:

• Persistent or Heavy Bleeding: Any significant or ongoing bleeding should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

• Dark, Tarry Stools: Black or tarry stools can indicate bleeding higher up in the digestive tract, which requires prompt medical attention.

• Accompanied Symptoms: If you experience additional symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, weight loss, fatigue or changes in bowel habits along with bleeding, consult a doctor.

• Age and Risk Factors: Individuals over 50 or those with a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps should seek evaluation if they notice blood in their stool.

Steps to Take

If you discover blood in your stool, follow these steps:

1. Observe and Document: Note the color and amount of blood, and any other symptoms you experience. This information will be helpful for your healthcare provider.

2. Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fiber to prevent constipation and reduce the strain during bowel movements.

3. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your stools soft and easy to pass.

4. Avoid Straining: Use proper techniques during bowel movements to minimize strain and avoid worsening hemorrhoids or fissures.

5. Seek Medical Advice: Consult a healthcare professional to determine the cause of bleeding and receive appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

Blood in the stool can result from various conditions, ranging from minor issues like hemorrhoids to more serious diseases such as colorectal cancer. Understanding the potential causes and recognizing when to seek medical help is crucial for your health. If you notice blood in your stool, don’t hesitate to contact a healthcare provider for evaluation and guidance. Stay informed and proactive about your digestive health with insights and tips from the PoopMania blog!

REMEMBER: this is NOT A MEDICAL APP