A bright red colour of blood in your stool results from bleeding in your lower digestive tract. Your colon, rectum, and anus are lined with blood vessels. Any injury to this tissue can result in bright red blood from your rectum. While worrisome, this is most often caused by a benign condition, such as haemorrhoids or diverticular disease. However, the bloody stool is also a symptom of colon cancer that should be excluded.

Contact your provider when you see blood in the stool, either on it, in the water in the toilet bowl, or on the paper when wiping. This article reviews common causes of blood in the stool and explains how bloody stool is evaluated, as well as other concerning symptoms and treatment.

What Does Blood in Stool Look Like?

Blood in your stool may appear in different colours, depending on where the bleeding occurs in the colon or digestive tract. Here's what to watch for -

Bright Red Blood - Shows bleeding in the lower colon, rectum, or anus.
Darker Red Blood - Suggests bleeding higher up in the colon.
Very Dark or Tar-Like Stool - Often indicates bleeding from the stomach or the upper parts of the digestive tract.
A Mixture of Colours - Sometimes, blood can be mixed throughout the stool, resulting in a varied appearance.

When to Seek Medical Advice?

Persistent Bleeding - If you notice persistent blood, regardless of the colour.
Associated Symptoms - Other symptoms such as pain, fatigue, or weight loss accompany bleeding.
Family History of Colon Cancer - If there is a family history of colorectal cancer or related diseases.

It's important to contact your healthcare provider if you observe blood in your stool or notice other related symptoms. Early evaluation can help rule out or diagnose serious conditions promptly.

Minor Causes of Rectal Bleeding

Bright red blood on toilet paper often indicates mild rectal bleeding. While these common conditions can often be managed with home remedies, it is important to consult your healthcare provider.

Haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels inside or outside the anus. While generally harmless, they are fragile and can bleed, leading to bright red blood smears on toilet paper.

Haemorrhoids may or may not cause discomfort. Pregnancy and straining during bowel movements are two common causes. Fortunately, haemorrhoids are easily treatable and may even resolve on their own.

Anal Fissure

An anal fissure is a minor tear or cut in the lining of the anus, which can lead to bright red bleeding during bowel movements. This delicate, moist tissue (mucosa) can rupture due to straining with large or hard stools, persistent diarrhoea, or excessive tension in the anal sphincter. Anal sex can also cause tearing. Once this tissue is torn, it can be difficult to heal, leading to repeated bleeding and significant pain.

Treatment for anal fissures emphasises preventing constipation and hard stools. Pain relief can be achieved with numbing creams, sitz baths, and Preparation H. In more severe cases, Botox injections or surgery may be necessary.

Constipation

Constipation and straining to pass a sizable bowel movement may result in bright red blood streaks on toilet paper.

Causes of constipation include -

Not drinking enough water
Low-fibre diets
Lack of exercise
Changes in routine
Overeating dairy
Stress
Holding in bowel movements
Certain medications
Certain health conditions
Pregnancy

Foods that Cause Red Stool

Certain foods can cause a reddish colour in your stool, resembling blood. Here are some of the most common causes -

Beets - Known for their intense red pigment, they can turn your stool reddish.
Red Licorice and Candy - Candy such as red liquorice contains dyes that can alter stool colour.
Coloured Drinks - Drinks containing food colourings, such as fruit punch or red sports drinks, can contribute to red stool.`
Foods with Red Food Colouring - Foods with both natural and artificial red dyes, such as red #40, can have this effect.
Red Gelatin - Popular desserts such as red gelatin can give stool a reddish hue.
Popsicles - Popsicles with red dye are another source of red colouration.
Tomato-Based Products - Tomato juice and tomato soup can also impart a reddish tint to your stool.

Treatment for Rectal Bleeding Diagnosed

Here are some medical tests that can help detect potential issues in the colon and lower intestinal tract:

Here are some medical tests that can identify issues in the colon and lower intestinal tract:

Complete Blood Count (CBC): A blood test that can reveal blood loss.
Faecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) or Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): Stool tests that detect hidden blood.
Colonoscopy is a procedure that uses a scope to examine the entire colon, allowing for the detection and removal of polyps or abnormalities.
Sigmoidoscopy: Similar to a colonoscopy but focused on the lower colon, including the sigmoid colon and rectum.
Imaging Studies: X-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs, and CT scans can detect abnormalities in the lower intestinal tract.

Discussing Results and Next Steps

After the tests, your healthcare provider will discuss the findings with you. If imaging identifies any abnormalities, further testing may be ordered. They will develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs based on the results.

Possible Treatment Plans

Medications - For treating infections, inflammation, or other conditions.
Dietary Changes - Increasing fibre, hydration, and overall digestive health.
Procedures - Removal of polyps or haemorrhoids via endoscopic or surgical methods.
Monitoring - Regular follow-ups or imaging for managing ongoing conditions.

Conclusion

Bright red blood in the stool can be alarming, but it's often due to a minor issue such as haemorrhoids or a small anal tear. However, it could also indicate a more serious condition, such as colorectal cancer. To check the cause and receive appropriate treatment, consult a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis is crucial, particularly for conditions such as colorectal cancer. Don't ignore persistent or recurring rectal bleeding. Seeking medical advice can help ensure peace of mind and lead to the best possible health outcomes.

Ref link-

https://www.verywellhealth.com/advice-about-bright-red-blood-in-stool-796937
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/14612-rectal-bleeding