Seeing blood in your stool can be alarming and raise concerns about your health. While it can indicate a serious problem, there are certain causes of blood in stool that are less serious.
In this article, we will discuss four possible causes of blood in stool.
1. Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are the most common cause of rectal bleeding. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum and anus that can cause discomfort, itching, and bleeding. Hemorrhoids can be internal or external.
External hemorrhoids are located outside the anus and can be felt as lumps. Internal hemorrhoids are located inside the rectum and may not be visible. The most common causes of hemorrhoids include constipation, diarrhea, and straining during bowel movements.
2. Anal fissures
Anal fissures are small tears in the lining of the anus. Anal fissures can cause pain, bleeding, and itching. They are most commonly caused by trauma to the area, such as passing a large stool or giving birth.
Other causes of anal fissures include chronic constipation, diarrhea, and inflammatory bowel disease.
3. Inflammatory bowel disease
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic condition that affects the digestive tract. The two main types of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
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Both conditions cause inflammation in the digestive tract, which can lead to bleeding during bowel movements. Other symptoms of IBD include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.
4. Colon cancer
Colon cancer is a potentially life-threatening condition that develops in the colon or rectum. One of the early warning signs of colon cancer is blood in the stool.
Other symptoms of colon cancer include abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and unintended weight loss. Colon cancer is more common in people over the age of 50 and those with a family history of the disease.
When to see a doctor
If you notice blood in your stool, it is important to see a doctor. Your doctor can perform tests to determine the cause of the bleeding and develop a treatment plan.
If the bleeding is severe or accompanied by other symptoms such as abdominal pain or fever, seek medical attention immediately.
Conclusion
Blood in the stool can be a sign of many different conditions, ranging from the less serious such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures to the more severe like colon cancer.
It is important to see a doctor if you notice blood in your stool to determine the cause and develop a treatment plan.
