What Is Rectal Bleeding?
Rectal bleeding occurs when blood is discharged from the rectum through the anus. The blood may appear bright red or maroon and may be seen in the stool, on the toilet paper, or in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement. It can be a distressing sight for individuals experiencing it and often prompts immediate concern. In many cases, rectal bleeding can be caused by minor issues that can be easily treated. However, it’s essential to know the potential underlying causes and seek medical attention to ensure proper diagnosis and appropriate care.
What Are the Common Causes of Rectal Bleeding?
Rectal bleeding can be caused by various factors, ranging from benign and minor issues to more serious medical conditions. Some of the common causes of rectal bleeding include:
- Haemorrhoids – Swollen and inflamed blood vessels in the rectum or anus are known as haemorrhoids. They can be internal or external and are a common cause of bright red blood on the surface of the stool or toilet paper after wiping.
- Anal Fissures – Small tears or cracks in the lining of the anus can occur due to passing hard stools, straining during bowel movements, or conditions like Crohn’s disease. Anal fissures may cause pain during and after bowel movements, along with rectal bleeding.
- Constipation – Difficulty passing stool can lead to straining during bowel movements, which can cause tiny tears in the rectum and rectal bleeding.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) – Conditions like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease can cause inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract, leading to rectal bleeding, along with other symptoms like diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and weight loss.
- Anal or Colorectal Cancer – In some cases, rectal bleeding may be an early symptom of anal or colorectal cancer. While less common, it’s essential to get evaluated, especially if the bleeding is persistent or accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
- Diverticular Disease – Diverticula are small pouches that can form in the colon. If they become inflamed or infected, it can cause rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits.
- Anal Infections – Infections in the anus, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or abscesses, can sometimes lead to rectal bleeding.
- Polyps – These are small, non-cancerous growths that can develop on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. While most polyps are harmless, some can bleed and, in rare cases, may progress to cancer.
- Gastrointestinal Infections – Infections like bacterial or viral gastroenteritis can cause digestive tract inflammation, leading to rectal bleeding in some cases.
How Does Rectal Bleeding Look Like?
Rectal bleeding can appear differently depending on its source and location within the digestive tract. Here are some common descriptions of how rectal bleeding may look like:
- Bright Red Blood – When rectal bleeding originates from the lower part of the digestive tract, such as the rectum or anus, the blood is usually bright red. It may be seen on the stool’s surface, toilet paper after wiping, or toilet bowl after a bowel movement. Bright red blood typically indicates bleeding close to the anus.
- Dark Red or Maroon Blood – Blood that appears darker, ranging from dark red to maroon, may indicate bleeding from higher up in the digestive tract, such as the colon. The blood has a chance to mix with stool as it travels through the intestines, causing it to change colour and become darker.
- Black, Tarry Stools (Melena) – If the blood comes from the upper digestive tract, like the stomach or small intestine, it may appear black and have a tarry consistency. This type of stool is called melena and results from blood being partially digested as it passes through the gastrointestinal system.
When to Seek Medical Help?
You should seek medical help for rectal bleeding in the following situations:
- Persistent or Recurrent Bleeding – If you notice blood in your stool or on the toilet paper that persists or recurs over several days or weeks, it’s essential to get it checked by a healthcare professional. Even if the bleeding seems minor, it’s better to be evaluated to rule out any underlying issues.
- Severe Bleeding – If the rectal bleeding is profuse, meaning you’re experiencing a significant amount of blood loss, or if you feel lightheaded, dizzy, or weak, seek immediate medical attention. Severe bleeding may require urgent treatment to stabilise your condition.
- Frequent or Unexplained Symptoms – If you experience rectal bleeding along with other concerning symptoms such as abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits (diarrhoea or constipation), unintended weight loss, or persistent fatigue, it’s important to see a doctor for a comprehensive evaluation.
- History of Colon or Rectal Issues – If you have a personal or family history of colorectal conditions, such as polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, or colorectal cancer, it’s crucial to be proactive and consult with a doctor if you experience any rectal bleeding.
- Age and Risk Factors – If you are over the age of 45, you may be at a higher risk for colorectal issues, including cancer. In such cases, any episode of rectal bleeding should prompt a visit to the doctor.
What Are the Diagnostic Procedures to Identify Causes?
To identify the underlying causes of rectal bleeding, doctors may use various diagnostic procedures. These can include a physical examination, where the doctor will look for signs of haemorrhoids, fissures, or other abnormalities. A digital rectal exam may also be performed to check for masses or growths.
Additionally, the doctor may recommend tests such as colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or imaging studies like CT scans or MRIs to get a more detailed view of the digestive tract and identify potential issues.
Why It’s Important to Share Detailed Symptoms With the Doctor?
Sharing detailed symptoms with the doctor is vital because rectal bleeding can be caused by various factors, ranging from mild to severe. They can make a more accurate diagnosis by providing the doctor with accurate and comprehensive information about the bleeding, its appearance, frequency, and any associated symptoms.
This enables timely and appropriate treatment, ensuring the best possible outcome and potentially detecting any serious conditions early when they are most treatable. Open communication with the doctor is the key to effective healthcare management.
