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What Causes Rectal Bleeding?
Retal bleeding in most cases is not a symptom of a serious disease- but it does not imply that you should disregard the symptoms. The hemorrhoids are the most widespread cause of the rectal bleeding.
It can be a frightening occurrence to see blood in a bowel movement or post bowel movement. You might wonder:
What is the meaning of a rectal bleeding?
Why have I bled after passing a bowel?
Is stool and blood always serious?
I work as a gastroenterologist in Houston. I have heard a good number of patients concerned about a drop of blood. This guide will assist you in knowing the cause of bleeding, when to visit Dr. Bharat Pothuri, and the role of Gastrodoxs this respect.
Section 1: What is Rectal Bleeding?
Rectal bleeding refers to the bleeding of the lower digestive tract or the anus.
You may see:
Bright red blood
Dark red blood
Black or tarry stool
It can be present on the stool, dripped into the toilet or manifested on the toilet paper.
Dr. Pothuri says that rectal bleeding may be frightening, yet be able to be treated in many cases. The trick is learning how to get assistance.
Section 2: Why Am I Bleeding Following Bowel Movement?
Many people ask this. Common reasons include:
Hemorrhoids are distended rectal or anorectal veins.
Anal fissures small tears in the skin are known as anal fissures.
Constipation hard or large stools may be damaging prevents constipation.
Straining pushing to too great extremes ruptures minute blood vessels.
Even a little tear may result in bright red blood during or after a bowel movement.
Section 3: Is Stool Blood at All Times Healthy or Unhealthy?
Not always but it is sometimes.
Mild Causes:
Hemorrhoids
Anal fissures
Minor infections
Serious Causes:
Crohn's or ulcerative colitis Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
Diverticulosis or diverticulitis
Colon polyps or cancer
When the bleeding continues to recur or when you start experiencing other signs (such as pain or loss of weight), then time to see a doctor.
Section 4: The Major Causes of rectal bleeding
The most typical causes of rectal bleeding are as follows:
Hemorrhoids
Puffy veins, itchy, sore, or bloody
Blood in tissue or in toilet, bright red
Anal Fissures
Small tears in the skin
Acute pain during or after passing of stool
Diverticular Disease
In the colon wall, there were small pouches
Can bleed or get infected
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Crohn and ulcerative colitis
The persistent inflammation leads to bleeding and mucus
Colon Polyps or Cancer
Overtime polyps may develop into cancer
The bleeding can be occult or overt
Early screening is vital
Infections
Irritating bacteria or viruses of the colon
May include crams, blood and diarrhea
Proctitis
Ulceration of the rectum and its surrounding
However, IBD, radiation, and infections of the pancreas cause it
Dr. Pothuri says that unexplained rectal bleeding must always be investigated.
Section 7: Diagnosis of Rectal Bleeding
Some of the tests that we are using at Gastrodoxs in Houston are:
1. Anoscopy
The anal canal is examined by a small scope
In-office and takes a few minutes
2. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
Examination of the lower colon and rectum
Diagnose inflammation or growths
3. Colonoscopy
Full view of the colon
Is able to remove polyps or biopsy
Prep consists of soft liquids, laxatives
4. Imaging
Diverticulitis or mass CT scan or MRI
5. Lab Tests
Stool culture, blood in the stool, infection
Anemia or inflammation blood tests
Section 8: The Treatment of Bleeding of the Rectum
The therapy is based on the etiology. The following is what we tend to suggest:
Hemorrhoids and Fissures
- Sitz baths
- Creams or ointments
- Fiber diet and laxatives
- Office tools such as rubber banding
Diverticular Disease
- Antibiotics if infected
- Fiber-rich diet
- Surgery in severe cases
IBD
- Anti-inflammatory drugs
- Immunolytic biologics
- Surgery if needed
Colon Polyps or Cancer
- Polyps when doing colonoscopy
- Surgery for cancer
- Chemo or radiation as needed
Infections
- Antibiotics or antivirals
- Rest and fluids
Proctitis
- Drugs: steroids, antibiotics or anti-inflammatories
- Radiation history, in case of the treatment of another cancer
Section 9: Prevention Tips
These measures will help you reduce the risk of rectal bleeding:
Eat More Fiber
- Aim for 25-30g daily
- whole grains, fruits, veggies, and beans
Stay Hydrated
- Drink plenty of water
- Limit alcohol and caffeine
Exercise Regularly
- At least 30 minutes most days
- Assists digestion and decreases constipation
Don't Strain
- Use the bathroom when needed
- Use a footstool to have an easier posture
Limit Toilet Time
- Do not spend much time sitting or using phone when taking bathroom breaks
Section 10: Gastrodoxs.com provides care services to its clients
We focus on digestive health of patients throughout Houston at Gastrodoxs. Dr. Our team of experts, led by Dr. Bharat Pothuri, offers expert care, testing, and treatment of rectal bleeding and related problems.
Need help? Make an appointment with our colon health specialists in Houston.
Rectal bleeding is widespread and can be easily cured.
We hope that this guide helped provide answers to:
What is the medical meaning of rectal bleeding?
Why do I bleed after passing bowel?
Is blood in stool ever serious?
Do not wait, in case you live in Houston. Get care early at Gastrodoxs.
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.
