Observing blood in your stool can be alarming and raise immediate concern and anxiety in anyone who experiences it. Although often benign, rectal bleeding can serve as a potential indicator of various underlying health issues. This article will shed light on the causes, treatments, and symptoms of rectal bleeding, emphasising the importance of seeking medical attention.

What is Rectal Bleeding?

When bleeding occurs from the rectum or anus (your back passage from where you pass faeces), it is known as rectal bleeding or hematochezia. The blood is visible on the stool or the toilet paper after wiping. The severity of bleeding varies from individual to individual. In mild cases, the bleeding may appear as spots on the stool, while in severe cases, it could be brisk bleeding.

Causes of Rectal Bleeding

Several factors are responsible for rectal bleeding, each with varying degrees of seriousness:

Haemorrhoids or piles are the most common cause of rectal bleeding. They are swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus. Haemorrhoids are not acute and usually result from straining or pressure, such as from pregnancy, heavy lifting or straining to poop.
Anal fissures are tears or cracks in the lining of the anus. They are also common and usually happen when an individual strains to pass hard poop.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) leads to chronic inflammation in the lining of your bowels (large and small intestines). Crohn’s disease affects the small intestine, and ulcerative colitis affects the large intestine, resulting from IBD. IBD causes chronic abdominal pain and diarrhoea in severe cases, which could cause bleeding.
A Colon polyp is a malignant growth that looks like a mushroom seen at the side of your bowel. Large polyps can bleed. They might turn into cancer, and cancerous polyps are more likely to bleed than others.
Diverticulosis is the condition in which small, bulging pouches (diverticula) form in the colon and can bleed due to inflammation or infection.
Gastrointestinal Tract Tumours can be both benign and malignant and could cause bleeding.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and syphilis could cause inflammation and bleeding in the anal or rectal lining. Other than these, STIs such as Herpes and human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause sores and anal warts, respectively, that may bleed a little. Many STIs need specific treatment to go away, so it’s crucial to get them diagnosed.

Symptoms Associated with Rectal Bleeding:

The symptoms associated with rectal bleeding include:

Bright red blood in stool or toilet after bowel movements.
Pain, discomfort, or a sensation of incomplete bowel movement.
Abdominal pain accompanied by bloating or cramping.
Diarrhoea or constipation.
Fatigue and weakness due to heavy bleeding.

Diagnosing Rectal Bleeding

To provide correct treatment, your healthcare provider will conduct thorough tests to determine the underlying medical condition causing rectal bleeding. Beginning with a physical examination, your healthcare professional would perform a digital rectal exam and other diagnostic tests such as colonoscopy or endoscopy, stool tests (for blood or pathogens), and imaging studies (CT scan, MRI).

Treatment Options

The treatment for rectal bleeding depends on the underlying cause and severity. For minor conditions with less bleeding, such as haemorrhoids, dietary modification, such as a high-fibre diet, and proper hydration could help alleviate symptoms and provide relief. Medication or surgery is required to treat severe conditions such as tumours or diverticular disease. Tailoring the treatment plan to the individual's condition is crucial for effective management.

Prevention Tips

Preventive measures can reduce the risk of developing conditions leading to rectal bleeding:

Consuming a high-fibre diet and staying hydrated helps ensure smooth bowel movements.
Regular physical activity promotes healthy bowel function.
Avoid straining while passing stool to prevent the formation of haemorrhoids and fissures.
Routine medical check-ups are required, especially for individuals with a family history of colorectal disorders.

When To See A doctor

Since treating rectal bleeding depends on identifying the underlying cause, seeking medical advice is highly recommended, especially if the bleeding is persistent and accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Prompt medical attention can facilitate early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, improving outcomes and quality of life.

Conclusion

Rectal bleeding is never to be ignored. Benign or serious, understanding the causes, symptoms, and available treatment options for rectal bleeding empowers individuals to take control of their health. Proactive steps or preventive measures and seeking timely medical attention can help manage gastrointestinal health and overall well-being.

FAQs about rectal bleeding

Q1. How severe is rectal bleeding?
A1. Rectal bleeding is not always severe. The seriousness of rectal bleeding depends on the underlying cause of the bleeding.

Q2. When should I see a doctor for rectal bleeding?
Q2. You should seek medical advice for all cases of rectal bleeding. Symptoms like pain, dizziness, and bowel movement changes warrant medical attention.

A3. Can rectal bleeding be prevented?
A3. A high-fibre diet, staying hydrated, and exercising are some tips to reduce the risk of rectal bleeding.

Q4. Can rectal bleeding stop on its own?
A4. Yes, rectal bleeding can sometimes stop on its own, especially if it's due to minor issues like small anal fissures or haemorrhoids. However, it's essential to monitor the situation and consult a healthcare provider to ensure there is not a more serious underlying cause.

Sources:

https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/symptoms/rectal-bleeding#:~:text=Rectal%20bleeding%3B%20Blood%20in%20the,used%20to%20describe%20this%20finding
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/14612-rectal-bleeding
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/rectal-bleeding