What Does Blood In My Stool Mean?
- AGG
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Blood in the stool, also known as rectal bleeding, can occur for many different reasons. In some cases the cause is relatively minor, such as hemorrhoids. In other situations, rectal bleeding may indicate a more serious digestive condition that requires evaluation.
If you notice blood during bowel movements, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause.
Types of Blood in Stool
The appearance of blood can help determine where bleeding may be occurring in the digestive tract.
Bright Red Blood
Bright red blood is usually associated with bleeding near the rectum or lower colon. Common causes include:
hemorrhoids
anal fissures
inflammation in the rectum
Dark Red or Maroon Blood
Darker blood may indicate bleeding from higher in the colon.
Possible causes include:
colon polyps
diverticulosis
inflammatory bowel disease
Black or Tarry Stools
Black stools may suggest bleeding from the upper digestive tract.
Possible causes include:
stomach ulcers
gastritis
bleeding in the small intestine
Common Causes of Blood in Stool
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum that may cause painless bleeding during bowel movements.
Colon Polyps
Colon polyps are abnormal growths in the colon that may bleed. Some polyps can develop into colorectal cancer if not removed.
Diverticulosis
Small pouches in the colon called diverticula can occasionally bleed.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Conditions such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis may cause inflammation and bleeding in the digestive tract.
Anal Fissures
Small tears in the lining of the anus can cause pain and bright red bleeding.
When to See a Gastroenterologist
Patients should seek medical evaluation if they experience:
persistent rectal bleeding
blood mixed with stool
unexplained weight loss
abdominal pain
changes in bowel habits
fatigue or anemia
Even if bleeding appears minor, it is important to determine the underlying cause.
How Gastroenterologists Diagnose Rectal Bleeding
Evaluation may include:
colonoscopy
upper endoscopy
stool testing
blood tests
A colonoscopy allows physicians to directly examine the colon and identify sources of bleeding such as polyps, inflammation, or other abnormalities.
Colon Cancer Screening
In some cases, blood in the stool may be related to colon polyps or colorectal cancer. Screening colonoscopy is recommended beginning at age 45 for average-risk individuals.
Early detection allows physicians to remove polyps before they develop into cancer.
Schedule an Appointment
If you notice blood in your stool or experience rectal bleeding, the specialists at Advanced Gastroenterology Group can evaluate the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
