Bloody stool: causes
The presence of blood in the stool is a significant and alarming medical problem for many people. Blood can be seen as red or black spots in the stool, or it can only be detected on laboratory tests. The causes of blood in the stool can range from minor problems such as anal fissures to more serious conditions such as colorectal cancer.
We find out what diseases can hide bloody stools, what other symptoms appear and how to treat and prevent such a problem from Dr. Octavian Popescu, visceral surgery specialist at the German Institute of Oncological Surgery We Care.
Anal fissures
Anal fissures are small tears or cracks in the lining of the anal canal. They can be caused by the passage of hard or bulky faeces or by local trauma. The presence of blood in the feces is often accompanied by pain and bleeding in the anus during defecation. Although anal fissures can be painful, they are generally minor conditions and often heal on their own or with simple treatment.
Hemorrhoidal disease
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the area of the anus or lower rectum. They can be internal, when they are inside the rectum, or external, when they are under the skin near the anus. Blood in the stool can be the result of a ruptured internal or external hemorrhoid, irritation or injury to this sensitive area.
Hemorrhoids can be the cause of rectal bleeding and can be accompanied by burning, itching or discomfort in the anus. Most hemorrhoids can be managed with self-care measures or appropriate medical treatment.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a general term that describes chronic conditions of the gastrointestinal tract, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Persistent inflammation of the intestinal mucosa can lead to rectal bleeding and, implicitly, to the presence of blood in the faeces.
Patients with BIB may also experience other symptoms, such as chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss. Treatment for BII usually involves medication and lifestyle changes, but in complex cases surgery may be resorted to.
Colorectal polyps
Colorectal polyps are abnormal growths in the lining of the large intestine. They can be benign or, in some cases, can become cancerous. The presence of blood in the stool can be an early sign of colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer.
Other symptoms may include changes in bowel movements, anemia or unexplained weight loss. Diagnosing and removing colorectal polyps by colonoscopy is essential to prevent progression to cancer.
Cancer colorectal
Blood in the stool can be a significant symptom of colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer develops in the colon or rectum and can seriously affect the patient’s health. Additional symptoms may include persistent abdominal pain, weakness, and weight loss.
Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can improve the chances of survival.
Blood in the stool can be an important signal of digestive health problems. It is crucial not to ignore this symptom and consult a doctor to find out the cause.
Blood in the stool: what other symptoms occur
There are some specific symptoms associated with the presence of blood in the faeces, which may vary depending on the cause that produces them:
- Visible blood in the stool
You may notice red or black spots in the stool or on the toilet paper after a bowel movement. Sometimes blood may only be visible in laboratory tests, without being visible to the naked eye.
- Rectal pain or discomfort
Some conditions, such as anal fissures or hemorrhoids, can cause pain or discomfort in the anus during defecation or even during the day.
- Anal burning or itching sensation
Hemorrhoids or other rectal conditions may be accompanied by a burning or itching sensation in the anal area.
- Changes in intestinal transit
Some people may notice changes in their usual bowel movements, such as diarrhea or constipation.
- Abdominal pain or cramps
In more serious conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease or colorectal cancer, persistent abdominal pain or cramping may occur.
Chronic bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract can lead to low iron levels in the body, which can cause anemia. Symptoms of anemia may include excessive fatigue, weakness, and pallor.
It is important to note that these symptoms are not exclusive to the presence of blood in the stool and can be associated with other conditions as well.
Treatment for bloody stool
Treatment for blood in the stool depends on the cause, such as:
This may include dietary changes (eating high-fiber foods to prevent constipation), warm sitz baths to reduce pain, and the use of topical ointments or creams to facilitate healing.
- Self-care measures
These may involve lifestyle changes, such as a high-fiber diet, adequate hydration, avoiding excessive straining during bowel movements, and avoiding prolonged standing on the toilet.
Ointments or suppositories may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and discomfort. Sometimes fiber supplements or laxatives may also be recommended to prevent constipation.
Surgical treatment is required when anal bleeding is caused by tumors or advanced hemorrhoidal disease.
How to prevent blood in the stool
Preventing blood in the stool may depend on its specific cause. However, there are some general lifestyle and personal care measures that can help prevent or reduce the risk of this symptom. Here are some tips that can help you:
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in fiber
Eat foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes, as they contain fiber that facilitates normal intestinal transit. A healthy diet can prevent constipation, which can be a cause of rectal bleeding.
Make sure you drink enough fluids during the day to maintain optimal hydration. Adequate hydration can help maintain healthy bowel movements.
- Avoid excessive straining during defecation
Do not strain too much during bowel movements. If you tend to be constipated, you can use the foot stool or fiber supplements to facilitate the elimination of feces.
- Pay attention to anal hygiene
After each defecation, clean the anal area carefully, using soft toilet paper or wet wipes. Avoid excessive rubbing or using soaps or other products with irritating ingredients such as perfume.
- Maintain an active lifestyle
Regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy digestive system and prevent constipation.
- Colorectal cancer screening program
If you are of the appropriate age and at high risk for colorectal cancer, follow the screening program recommended by your doctor. This may include tests such as a colonoscopy, which can detect the presence of polyps or colorectal cancer early.
2023-06-08 11:49:09
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