What Is Blood in Stool?
Blood in stool refers to the presence of blood in bowel movements or faeces. The blood may be bright red, maroon, or black, depending on its origin in the digestive tract. Bright red blood typically comes from the lower part of the digestive system, such as the rectum or anus, while darker blood may indicate bleeding higher up in the intestines.
It is essential to differentiate between blood in stool and bleeding from the rectum, as they may have different causes and implications for your health.
What Are the Common Causes of Blood in Stools?
Blood in stool can result from various conditions, ranging from benign to serious issues. Some of the common causes include:
- Haemorrhoids – Swollen and inflamed blood vessels in the rectum or anus are called haemorrhoids. They can cause bright red blood in the stool or toilet paper and may lead to itching or discomfort around the anus.
- Anal Fissures – Small tears or cuts in the lining of the anus can cause bleeding during bowel movements, resulting in blood-streaked stool.
- Diverticular Disease – Diverticula are small pouches that can form in the colon. When these pouches become inflamed or infected (diverticulitis), they may bleed, leading to blood in the stool.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) – Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation and ulceration in the digestive tract, leading to bleeding.
- Gastrointestinal Infections – Infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites can irritate the intestinal lining, resulting in blood in the stool. Examples include bacterial gastroenteritis or parasitic infections like giardiasis.
- Peptic Ulcers – Open sores that develop on the stomach lining, small intestine, or oesophagus can cause bleeding, leading to blood in the stool or black, tarry stools (melena).
- Colorectal Polyps – These are noncancerous growths that can form in the colon or rectum. While most polyps do not bleed, some larger ones can lead to blood in the stool.
- Colorectal Cancer – In some cases, blood in the stool can be a sign of colorectal cancer, especially if it is persistent and unrelated to any other obvious cause.
- Anal or Colorectal Cancer – Cancers of the anus or rectum can cause bleeding, leading to blood in the stool.
- Gastrointestinal Bleeding – In rare cases, blood in the stool may result from an injury or trauma to the gastrointestinal tract or a vascular malformation.
How Much Blood in Stool Is Normal?
The presence of any amount of blood in stool is not considered normal. A healthcare professional should evaluate even a small amount of blood in the stool to determine the underlying cause. While some causes of rectal bleeding may be relatively harmless, others can be more serious and require prompt medical attention.
How Does Blood in Your Stool Look Like?
Blood in stool can have different appearances depending on its source and the location of bleeding in the digestive tract. Here are some common descriptions of how blood in the stool may look like:
- Bright Red Blood – If the bleeding is in the lower part of the digestive tract, such as the rectum or anus, the blood is usually bright red. This can make the stool appear red or have streaks of blood. The blood is often fresh and not digested, so it retains its red colour.
- Maroon or Dark Red Blood – If the bleeding occurs higher in the gastrointestinal tract, such as the small intestine or stomach, the blood may mix with the stool and appear darker in colour. The stool may appear maroon or dark red, suggesting that the blood has been partially digested.
- Black, Tarry Stools (Melena) – When blood is digested in the upper digestive tract, it can turn the stool black and tarry in appearance. This is known as melena. Melena indicates bleeding higher up in the gastrointestinal tract, such as the stomach or upper small intestine. It’s important to note that not all black stools are due to blood; certain medications or foods can also cause black-coloured stools.
- Blood Clots – In some cases, blood in the stool may appear as small or larger clots. Clotted blood can indicate a more significant bleeding event.
When to Seek Medical Help?
You should seek medical help promptly if you notice blood in your stool or on toilet paper after a bowel movement. While the cause of blood in stool may be benign, it can also be a sign of more serious conditions. Here are some specific situations when you should seek immediate medical attention:
- Persistent or Unexplained Bleeding – If you consistently notice blood in your stool or if the bleeding recurs over several days, it’s essential to get it checked by a healthcare professional.
- Changes in Bowel Habits – If you experience changes in your bowel movements, such as increased frequency or diarrhoea, along with blood in stool, it could be a cause for concern.
- Abdominal Pain – If you have abdominal pain and blood in your stool, especially if it’s severe or persistent, it’s crucial to seek medical help.
- Unintended Weight Loss – Significant and unexplained weight loss alongside blood in stool requires immediate medical evaluation.
- Fatigue and Weakness – If you feel unusually fatigued or weak, it may indicate an underlying issue, especially when accompanied by rectal bleeding.
- Family History – If you have a family history of gastrointestinal conditions, such as colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease, it’s essential to be vigilant and consult a doctor if you notice any concerning symptoms.
- Age and Risk Factors – If you are over 45 years old (when colon cancer risk increases) or have other risk factors for gastrointestinal issues, such as a history of smoking it’s advisable to seek medical attention promptly.
It’s crucial not to ignore blood in stool or delay seeking medical help. While the cause may be harmless in some cases, it’s essential to rule out potentially serious conditions and receive appropriate treatment. Early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes and ensure your overall well-being.
What Are the Diagnostic Procedures to Identify Causes?
Your doctor may recommend several diagnostic procedures to identify the underlying cause of blood in the stool. These may include a physical examination, where your doctor checks for any external signs of bleeding around the anus, such as haemorrhoids or fissures.
Additionally, your doctor may order blood tests to check for signs of infection or inflammation. Other procedures may involve a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, which allows the doctor to examine the inside of the colon and rectum for any abnormalities or sources of bleeding.
These tests are crucial for making an accurate diagnosis and developing an effective treatment plan.
Why It's Important to Share Detailed Symptoms With the Doctor
Experiencing blood in the stool can be concerning, but it’s essential not to panic and seek medical attention promptly. Sharing detailed information about the colour, frequency, and accompanying symptoms with your doctor is crucial in helping them determine the potential cause of the bleeding.
Remember that many causes of blood in the stool can be treated effectively, especially when detected early, so don’t hesitate to discuss any concerns with your doctor. Timely medical evaluation and appropriate treatment can improve outcomes and peace of mind.
