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Hemorrhage Of Anus And Rectum

Rectal bleeding, known medically as hemorrhage of the anus and rectum (ICD-10 K62.5), ranges from mild spotting to significant blood loss. Early evaluation by a gastroenterologist like Dr. Nghia Nguyen in Houston ensures accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment, and improved outcomes.

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Nghia Nguyen

About the Expert

Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Hemorrhoids (swollen veins in or around the anus)
  • Anal fissures (small tears in the anal lining)
  • Colon polyps and colorectal cancer
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease)
  • Diverticulosis (small pouches in the colon wall)
  • Chronic constipation or frequent straining during bowel movements
  • Recurrent diarrhea
  • Use of blood‐thinning medications
  • Age over 50 or family history of colon disorders

Signs and Symptoms

  • Bright red blood on toilet paper, in the toilet bowl, or mixed with stool
  • Dark, tarry stools (melena) indicating digested blood
  • Pain, itching, or swelling around the anus
  • Pain during bowel movements (common with fissures)
  • Lightheadedness or weakness if bleeding is significant
  • Unexplained changes in bowel habits

How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Hemorrhage of the Anus and Rectum?

Medical History and Symptom Review

Dr. Nguyen begins by discussing your bleeding episodes, bowel habits, pain, and any family history of colorectal disease.

Physical and Digital Rectal Exam

A gentle exam helps identify external hemorrhoids, fissures, or palpable masses.

Anoscopy

Using a small lighted tube, he inspects the anal canal and distal rectum for hemorrhoids, fissures, or inflammation.

Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

This procedure visualizes the lower colon up to 60 cm, allowing detection of polyps, ulcers, or diverticula.

Colonoscopy (if indicated)

For a comprehensive evaluation, a full-colon scope may be performed to locate bleeding sources such as tumors or widespread colitis.

Laboratory and Imaging Studies

  • Blood tests to check for anemia and assess overall health.
  • Imaging (CT scan or MRI) when deeper pathology or abscess is suspected.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for hemorrhage of the anus and rectum.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • High-fiber diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) to soften stool
  • Increased water intake and avoiding straining during bowel movements
  • Regular light exercise (e.g., walking) to support healthy bowel function

2. Medications

  • Stool softeners and fiber supplements to prevent constipation
  • Topical creams and ointments to reduce pain, itching, and swelling

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Rubber band ligation and heat therapy to treat hemorrhoids
  • Endoscopic clipping or cauterization for polyps, ulcers, or bleeding lesions
  • Flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy-based interventions as needed
  • Surgical referral or advanced intervention for cases unresponsive to other therapies
Dr Nghia Nguyen

About the Author

Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is hemorrhage of the anus and rectum?

It is bleeding from the lower digestive tract, often seen as bright red blood on toilet paper, in the bowl, or mixed with stool (ICD-10 code K62.5).

Are hemorrhoids the only cause of rectal bleeding?

No. Other causes include anal fissures, colon polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulosis, infections, and even colorectal cancer.

When should I seek medical attention?

If you notice blood during or after a bowel movement more than once, experience heavy bleeding, or feel weak or lightheaded, schedule an exam promptly.

Can diet and lifestyle changes prevent bleeding?

Yes. Eating more fiber, drinking plenty of water, avoiding straining, and exercising lightly can soften stool and reduce pressure on veins.

Is a colonoscopy painful?

No. Sedation is provided, so most patients feel little to no discomfort during the procedure and only mild cramping afterward.

Will my insurance cover these tests and treatments?

Most health plans cover standard diagnostics (anoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy) and non-surgical treatments. Our staff will verify your benefits.

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