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What is Rectal Bleeding?
Passing blood from the rectum or anus (hematochezia) can be alarming, but it's important to break free from the misconception that it's always harmless. While sometimes attributed to minor issues like haemorrhoids, rectal bleeding or occult blood in faeces can also signal more serious conditions like colorectal cancers or inflammatory bowel diseases.
Book an appointment with our expert doctors to get yourself checked
Ignoring any blood in your stool under the assumption it's nothing could delay crucial medical intervention and potentially worsen outcomes. It's vital to remember that rectal bleeding transcends gender: both men and women can experience it, making awareness and proactive healthcare universal concerns.
Notice the colour of your stool and whether the blood is mixed in or coating the outside. This information can be crucial for diagnosis.
Be aware of signs that might indicate rectal bleeding, such as:
Dark red blood in stool
Painless bright red blood in your stool
Black or tarry (like tar) stool
Bright red blood in your vomit (less common)
Vomit that looks like coffee grounds (less common)
Changes in bowel habits (diarrhoea, constipation)
Bright Red: Often suggests bleeding in the lower digestive tract (rectum or colon).
Darker Blood: This may indicate bleeding higher up in the digestive system.
Hemorrhoids: These are swollen veins around the anus, and one of the most common blood in stool causes, especially bright red blood after passing stool.
Anal fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus, usually caused by straining during bowel movements, can lead to streaks of blood on toilet paper or in stool.
Diverticulitis: Inflammation or infection of pouches in the colon wall, often causing lower abdominal pain and sometimes rectal bleeding.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Chronic conditions like Crohn's and ulcerative colitis can irritate your intestines, leading to blood in your stool.
Angiodysplasia: Abnormal blood vessels in the digestive tract can bleed, causing bright red blood on toilet paper or in stool.
Colorectal Cancer: While less common, colorectal and anal cancers, along with other digestive system cancers, can also be potential rectal bleeding causes.
Seeking professional evaluation is crucial to pinpointing the cause of your rectal bleeding and accessing appropriate rectal bleeding treatment. It's the only way to ensure you receive the care you need.
During a consultation, your healthcare provider will create a thorough evaluation procedure based on your age, symptoms and medical history. To identify the source of rectal bleeding, The physical examination usually involves:
Examining the anus for external signs.
Gently inserting a gloved finger into the rectum to feel for abnormalities.
An anoscopy may be performed alongside the exam, using a tube to view the anal canal and lower rectum. It's done in-office and doesn't require sedation.
Diagnostic Tests: For a closer look inside the colon, rectum, and anus, various tests are available using specialised scopes:
Sigmoidoscopy: Examines the rectum and most of the lower colon.
Colonoscopy: Examines the entire colon.
The specific tests recommended may vary depending on your case.
Making healthy lifestyle changes and prioritising gut health can significantly reduce the severity of rectal bleeding and contribute to overall well-being.
A. Dietary adjustments
Prioritise fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Limit red meat, processed foods, and unhealthy fats.
Consider increasing fibre intake.
B. Hydration
Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Aim for 8-10 glasses daily.
C. Healthy lifestyle
Maintain a healthy weight.
Exercise regularly.
Manage stress effectively.
While lifestyle changes can help manage rectal bleeding, the following preventive strategies for long-term colorectal well-being are crucial;
Schedule regular checkups with your doctor.
Discuss colorectal cancer screening options based on your age and risk factors.
Follow recommended screening guidelines.
It is crucial to be vigilant for specific warning signs associated with rectal bleeding that demand prompt medical attention.
Persistent Bleeding
Severe pain in the rectal area
Unexpected weight loss or sudden changes in bowel habits
The rectal bleeding symptoms might point to underlying health issues, potentially affecting your gut. Timely recognition and response to these signs are pivotal in ensuring a comprehensive diagnosis and initiating appropriate interventions. If you or someone you know experiences any of these warning signs, seeking immediate medical attention is imperative to address potential health risks and initiate timely and effective management strategies.
It is advisable to not ignore the symptoms, even if they seem minor. Schedule an appointment with your doctor promptly, especially if the bleeding is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms like pain, fever, or changes in bowel habits.
Consult your doctor for personalised dietary advice based on the underlying cause. However, generally, increasing fibre intake and staying hydrated can be beneficial.
Ignoring rectal bleeding can potentially lead to more serious complications, depending on the underlying cause. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to avoid such risks.
No, rectal bleeding does not always indicate cancer. Many other benign conditions, such as haemorrhoids or anal fissures, can cause rectal bleeding. However, it is essential to rule out serious conditions through proper medical evaluation.
