Rectal Bleeding
(Symptoms)
This page will help you answer your questions.
- What is rectal bleeding?
- If you have rectal bleeding, you may see blood in several different ways — on toilet paper when wiping, in the toilet water, or in the stool. The color of the blood you see can actually indicate the source of the bleeding as follows:
- Bright red blood: bleeding in the lower part of thedigestive system — in the colon, rectum, or anus..
Dark red or maroon blood: bleeding in the upper part of the digestive system — in the colon or small intestine.
Dark stool: bleeding in the stomach, such as from an ulcer.
What are the causes of rectal bleeding?
- The causes of rectal bleeding can range from common and mild conditions to more severe and rare ones that require immediate medical treatment. Causes include:
- Causes of bleeding fromthe upper digestive system:
Stomach and duodenal infections and ulcers
- Cirrhosis: Cirrhosis may cause varices in the stomach, whichin turn cause bleeding in the digestive system.
- Causes of bleeding from the lower digestive system:
- Hemorrhoids: the mostcommon cause ofrectal bleeding.
- Anal fissure: sometimes confused with hemorrhoids; an anal fissure is a split or tear in the skin around the anus.
- Anal abscess or fistula: There areIBDsmall glands inside the anusIBDthat help you pass stool.
- Diverticulosis / diverticulitis: these conditions occur when small pouches — called diverticula — develop in weak parts of the intestines.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): IBD is swelling in the small or large intestine.
Colon and rectal tumors: for this reason, regular colorectal cancer screenings are recommended starting at the age of 40–45, according to national health policies.
How to deal with rectal bleeding – Tips to help you manage it
Treatment varies depending on the condition causing the bleeding. In most cases, conditions , such as anal fissures may heal on their own over time or can be treated with ointments.
Surgery may be required in cases such as hemorrhoids and others.
When should you see a doctor?
If you experience severe bleeding, notice blood after a bowel movement, or see black-colored stool, it is essential to visit a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any foods that can change stool color in a way similar to rectal bleeding?
Yes, foods such as black licorice, beets, and dark berries (blueberries and blackberries) , and red gelatin can make the stool appear very dark.
Are there any medications that can change stool color in a way similar to rectal bleeding?
Yes, iron supplements can make the stool appear very dark.
