Written by Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG

Rectal Bleeding: What’s Behind Your Symptoms?

Seeing blood after a bowel movement can be scary. You may wonder, "Is this serious? Am I okay?" You're not alone. Many people in Houston have the same questions. In this guide, we explain the common causes of rectal bleeding. We also answer big questions like: Is rectal bleeding a sign of cancer? Why am I bleeding when I go to the bathroom? What tests are done? What does bright red blood mean? With help from Dr. Bharat Pothuri, we break it all down in simple terms. By the end, you’ll feel more informed and ready to speak with your doctor.

Table of Contents

1. What Is Rectal Bleeding?
2. Common Causes
3. Is It a Sign of Cancer?
4. Why Does It Happen During Bowel Movements?
5. What Does Bright Red Blood Mean?
6. What Tests Are Done?
7. When to See a Doctor in Houston
8. Treatment and Prevention

1. What Is Rectal Bleeding?

Rectal bleeding means blood from your anus. You may see it:

• On toilet paper
• In the toilet bowl
• Mixed with stool

Color can hint at the source:

• Bright red: Usually from the rectum, anus, or lower colon
• Dark or black: May come from the upper colon or stomach

Quote from Dr. Pothuri:
"Rectal bleeding can be minor or serious. It's important to pay attention and get checked early."

2. Common Causes of Rectal Bleeding

Here are the most common reasons:

Hemorrhoids

• Swollen veins near the anus.
• Signs: Bright red blood, itching, discomfort.
• Treatment: Sitz baths, creams, fiber.

Anal Fissures

• Small tears in the skin around the anus.
• Signs: Sharp pain, bright red blood.
• Treatment: Stool softeners, warm baths, ointments.

Diverticulosis/Diverticulitis

• Small pouches in the colon. They may get inflamed or bleed.
• Signs: Pain in lower belly, fever, bleeding.
• Treatment: Antibiotics, fiber.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

• Ongoing gut inflammation (Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis).
• Signs: Diarrhea, cramps, weight loss, blood in stool.
• Treatment: Medications, diet changes, sometimes surgery.

Colon Polyps or Cancer

• Growths that may turn into cancer.
• Signs: Often no early symptoms, later may cause bleeding or changes in bowel habits.
• Treatment: Polyp removal, surgery, or chemo if needed.

Gastroenteritis

• Stomach flu or food poisoning.
• Signs: Vomiting, diarrhea, sometimes bloody stool.
• Treatment: Fluids, rest, sometimes antibiotics.

3. Is Rectal Bleeding a Sign of Cancer?

Sometimes. It depends on your age and symptoms.

Risk factors:

• Age over 50
• Family history of colon cancer
• Personal history of polyps or IBD

Screening tip:
Start colonoscopies at age 45. Houston clinics offer these screenings.

Visit the American Cancer Society to learn more.

4. Why Am I Bleeding During Bowel Movements?

Bleeding during bowel movements is common. Causes include:

• Constipation: Hard stool can cause small tears.
• Diarrhea: Frequent wiping and irritation.
• Straining: Can damage veins or tissue.

Houston's heat often leads to dehydration. Drink plenty of water and eat fiber to avoid straining.

5. What Does Bright Red Blood Mean?

Bright red blood usually means the bleeding is close to the anus.

Common causes:

• Hemorrhoids
• Anal fissures
• Proctitis
• Colon polyps

Black or tarry stool usually means bleeding higher up. Call your doctor if you see this.

6. What Tests Are Done for Rectal Bleeding?

Doctors choose tests based on symptoms:

• Physical and Rectal Exam: Checks for hemorrhoids or lumps
• Anoscopy: Small lighted tube to view the anus and rectum
• Colonoscopy: Camera checks the whole colon; can take biopsies
• Sigmoidoscopy: Views only lower part of colon
• CT Colonography: Virtual scan of the colon
• Stool Tests: Look for hidden blood or infection
• Blood Tests: Check for anemia or inflammation

Many Houston centers offer same-day colonoscopies.

Test Comparison Table

7. When to See a Doctor in Houston

See a doctor if you have:

• Heavy bleeding or clots
• Dizziness or pale skin
• Ongoing pain or weight loss
• Black, tarry stool
• Bleeding for over a week

Houston has top GI clinics and hospitals. Ask your primary care doctor for a referral if needed.

8. Treatment and Prevention

At-home care:

• Eat more fiber
• Drink 8–10 cups of water daily
• Walk or exercise
• Use warm sitz baths
• Avoid pushing or straining

Medical care:

• Creams for hemorrhoids and fissures
• Medications for IBD
• Antibiotics for infection
• Endoscopy to treat bleeding or remove polyps
• Surgery in serious cases

Prevention tips:

• Go when you feel the urge
• Don’t rush or force bowel movements
• Wear cotton underwear
• Manage chronic conditions with regular checkups

External Links

• Mayo Clinic: Colonoscopy Info
• CDC: Colorectal Cancer Screening
• WebMD: Rectal Bleeding

Conclusion

Rectal bleeding can be alarming, but most causes are treatable. Hemorrhoids and fissures are common, but bleeding can also point to IBD or cancer. Getting tested early makes a big difference. If you live in Houston and notice bleeding, see a GI doctor soon. As Dr. Pothuri says, "Don’t ignore rectal bleeding. Finding the cause early leads to the best outcomes."

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.