Seeing blood in your stool can be a distressing and concerning experience. It is natural that you may be alarmed. However, not all cases of blood in your stools are indicative of a serious health issue. Through this comprehensive guide, G&L Surgical Clinic would like to help you understand the possible causes and the various symptoms to look out for that may point to a more serious health issue.
Common Causes of Blood in Stool
Haemorrhoids
Haemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels located in the rectum or anus. They can cause itching, bleeding, and overall discomfort, especially during bowel movements. Haemorrhoids are typically caused by straining during bowel movements, pregnancy, obesity, and chronic constipation or diarrhoea.
Symptoms of haemorrhoids include bright red blood after a bowel movement, itching or irritation around the anus, and pain during bowel movements.
Treatment for haemorrhoids typically includes lifestyle changes to increase fibre intake and hydration and avoid straining during bowel movements. Topical creams may also be prescribed to help alleviate the symptoms. However, in more severe cases, doctors may recommend procedures such as rubber band ligation or surgical removal.
Anal Fissures
Anal fissures refer to small tears in the lining of the anus, this may be caused by passing large or hardened stools. Additionally, anal fissures may develop after childbirth or medical conditions, such as Crohn’s disease.
Symptoms of anal fissures may include bright red blood on the surface of stools or toilet paper, itching and irritation around the anus, and pain or burning during bowel movements.
Anal fissures typically heal on their own with adequate self-care, including keeping the area clean and dry, and increasing one’s fibre intake to soften stools and prevent constipation. In some cases, our doctor may prescribe topical treatments to relieve pain.
Diverticulosis
Diverticulosis is characterised by the presence of small pockets or pouches along the wall of the colon, it is thought to be related to factors such as genetics, ageing, and a low-fibre diet.
While most individuals with diverticulosis do not experience symptoms, those that do may experience bloating, changes in bowel habits, and bright red or maroon rectal bleeding.
Treatment for diverticulosis often focuses on preventing related complications, such as inflammation or infection. This can be done through an increase in fibre, staying hydrated, and medication. In more severe cases of diverticulosis, hospitalisation and antibiotics may be recommended.
Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer can develop from precancerous polyps, it refers to cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. Risk factors for colorectal cancer include a family history, age, specific genetic syndromes, a history of inflammatory bowel diseases, and lifestyle factors such as smoking or a diet high in processed meats and alcohol.
Symptoms of colorectal cancer may include dark or maroon rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, unintended weight loss, abdominal pain, fatigue or weakness, and the sensation that the bowel has not emptied completely.
The recommended treatment for colorectal cancer is dependent on the stage at which the cancer is detected. It may include chemotherapy, surgery, or immunotherapy, amongst others.
Early detection of colorectal cancer through regular screenings and scheduled colonoscopies can significantly improve the outcomes by allowing for early diagnosis and treatment.
Signs to Watch Out For
Should you notice blood in your stools, it is important to understand the underlying cause. We have listed the basics to watch out for and what might be causing it, depending on the colour and any changes to your stool consistency and texture.
Type of blood in stool
Bright Red Blood:
Bright red blood in your stool often indicates bleeding from the lower digestive tract, such as the colon or rectum. This could be due to haemorrhoids, anal fissures, or inflammation.
Dark, Tarry Stool:
Stools that appear black and tarry may indicate bleeding in the upper digestive tract, such as the stomach or small intestine. This may indicate conditions like ulcers, gastritis, or gastrointestinal bleeding.
Maroon-Coloured Stool:
This may indicate substantial bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract or proximal colon, such as the small intestine. Conditions associated with this type of blood in stools include peptic ulcers or enlarged blood vessels within the oesophagus.
Blood Mixed with Stool:
Blood mixed with your stools can range in colour and can indicate bleeding from various parts of one’s digestive tract. Conditions related to blood mixed with stools may include bowel disease, diverticulosis, internal haemorrhoids, or colorectal cancer.
Changes in stool colour and consistency
Pale or Clay-Coloured Stool:
If your stool appears pale or clay-like, it may signify a decrease in bile pigment. This could suggest a bile duct obstruction or liver disease. Our doctor may conduct tests for conditions such as gallstones, tumours, or liver inflammation.
Greasy or Oily Stool:
Greasy or oily stools are often the result of fat malabsorption in the intestines. This could indicate conditions such as celiac disease, pancreatic insufficiency, or other gastrointestinal disorders.
Persistent Diarrhoea or Constipation:
It is important to note any persistent changes in one’s bowel habits. This may include chronic diarrhoea or constipation, which could signify gastrointestinal issues such as IBD, IBS, or colorectal cancer.
Mucus in Stool:
If you notice excessive mucus in your stools, accompanied by bleeding, it could suggest irritation or inflammation within the intestines, food intolerances, or colon cancer.
Associated symptoms
Some associated symptoms of blood in stools include abdominal pain or cramping, unintended weight loss, changes in appetite, fever or chills, fatigue or weakness. These symptoms, combined with blood in stools, may require further investigation as they could be linked to conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, gastrointestinal infections, or colon cancer.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Individuals should seek immediate medical attention if they experience persistent or substantial bleeding in their stools. This could be a sign of a serious underlying condition that will likely require immediate medical attention.
Persistent changes to regular bowel habits, including chronic diarrhoea or constipation combined with blood in one’s stool, should not be ignored. Additionally, individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer or other gastrointestinal conditions should be extra vigilant about changes in regular bowel habits.
Early medical intervention can drastically improve outcomes for gastrointestinal issues, especially when concerning symptoms are identified and treated promptly.
Should you notice blood in your stools or changes to your regular bowel habits, contact G&L Surgical Clinic for an appointment. Our friendly staff and doctor will be happy to help you understand the underlying cause of your symptoms and provide you with a treatment plan suited to your needs.
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