The sight of blood following the bowel movement is frightening. Right, you might ask, is this no big deal? Am I okay?" You're not alone. The same questions are in the mind of many people in Houston. Here in this guide we explain the typical causes of rectal bleeding. We also provide answers to the big questions such as: Is rectal bleeding a sign of cancer? Why then am I bleeding when I go to the bathroom? What tests are done? And what is bright red blood? and with the assistance of Dr. Bharat Pothuri, we reduce it to mere straight forward language. By the time you are done, you will be better informed and willing to discuss with your doctor.
Rectal bleeding refers to blood of your anus. You may see it:
Color can hint at the source:
Quote from Dr. Pothuri:
The Rectal bleeding may be small or severe. You should listen and have yourself examined at a young age.
The reasons most frequently used are:
Sometimes. It is a matter of the age and symptoms.
Risk factors:
Screening tip:
Start colonoscopies at age 45. These screenings are provided at Houston clinics.
Go to the American Cancer Society to find out more.
Intestinal bleeding is usual. Causes include:
The heat in Houston is usually dehydrating. Consume a lot of water and drink fiber to prevent straining.
Bright red blood normally indicates that the bleeding is near to the anus.
Common causes:
Black or tarry stool is typically an indication of bleeding higher up. See your physician in case of this.
Physicians order tests according to symptoms:
Houston has a lot of centers that provide same-day colonoscopies.
| Test | What It Finds | Prep | Pros | Cons |
| Digital Rectal Exam | Hemorrhoids, masses | None | Quick, no prep | Limited view |
| Anoscopy | Fissures, hemorrhoids | None | Good with rectal problems | Does not see colon |
| Colonoscopy | Polyps, cancer, IBD | Yes | Full colon view, can treat | Will require prep and sedation |
| Sigmoidoscopy | Lower colon issues | Light prep | Less than colonoscopy | Only lower colon |
| CT Colonography | Large growths | Prep needed | Noninvasive | No biopsy, radiation utilization |
| Stool Tests (FIT/DNA) | Hidden blood/DNA marks | None | Home testing that is easy to use | Needs follow-up in case positive |
See a doctor if you have:
Houston boasts of the best GI clinics and hospitals. Request your primary care physician to refer you.
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Rectal bleeding may be frightening, with majority of the causes being remediable. Hemorrhoids and fissures are not unusual, however bleeding may indicate IBD or cancer. Early testing is a big deal. In case you live in Houston and start bleeding, visit a GI doctor as soon as possible. Rectal bleeding should not be overlooked, as Dr. Pothuri says. Early detection and correction are the best results to find the cause of the problem.
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.
No. The vast majority of cases are as a result of minor conditions such as hemorrhoids.
Typically, due to heavy lifting or minor tears.
Common ones are examinations, colonoscopy, and stool samples.
bloody diarrhea through the rectum or lower colon.
In case of heavy bleeding, more than one week, or painful bowel movements or black stool.
Yes, fiber, fluids and sitz baths.
Yes, there is testing of hidden blood in the FIT tests.
Fiber, water and not a strain.
It can result in bowel problems which can cause bleeding.
Go to Mayo Clinic or CDC.
