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Rectal Bleeding
Rectal bleeding-bright red or dark, tarry stools, or blood on toilet paper-can stem from hemorrhoids, fissures, or serious conditions like colon cancer. Early assessment by Dr. Scott at GastroDoxs in Houston delivers precise diagnosis, tailored treatments, and peace of mind.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Hemorrhoids (swollen veins in the rectum or anus)
Anal fissures (small tears in the anal lining)
Diverticular disease (bleeding from pouches in the colon)
Inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease)
Colon polyps or colorectal cancer
Straining during bowel movements or passing hard stools
Age over 50 and a family history of colon cancer
Low-fiber diet and chronic constipation
Signs and Symptoms
Bright red blood on toilet paper, in the toilet bowl, or coating the stool
Maroon or dark, tarry stools (melena)
Pain during bowel movements (common with fissures)
Changes in bowel habits-diarrhea, constipation, or urgency
Feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or weak if bleeding is heavy
Itching or discomfort around the anus
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Rectal Bleeding?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Symptom Review
He asks about the onset, frequency, and appearance of bleeding, accompanying pain or itching, bowel habits, diet, medications, and family history of colorectal disease.
Physical Examination
A digital rectal exam evaluates for masses, tenderness, internal hemorrhoids, or anal fissures.
Endoscopic Evaluation
Anoscopy or proctoscopy to directly visualize the anal canal and distal rectum for hemorrhoids, fissures, or lesions.
Colonoscopy to inspect the entire colon, identify polyps, inflammation (IBD), diverticula, or malignancy, and allow for biopsy or polyp removal.
Laboratory and Stool Studies
Complete blood count to check for anemia, inflammatory markers if IBD is suspected, and stool tests for occult blood or infection.
Advanced Imaging (if indicated)
CT scan or MRI may be ordered to evaluate complex diverticular disease, deep abscesses, or equivocal findings on endoscopy.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for rectal bleeding.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Eat more fiber from vegetables, fruits, and whole grains
Drink more water to soften stools
Go to the bathroom when you feel the urge-do not delay
Take warm sitz baths to relieve pain and help healing
2. Medications
Stool softeners or fiber supplements
Creams or suppositories for hemorrhoids
Anti-inflammatory medicine for inflammatory bowel disease
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Rubber band ligation to treat internal hemorrhoids
Sclerotherapy, which uses a special injection to shrink swollen veins
Endoscopy to stop bleeding from polyps or ulcers
Laser or infrared therapy to seal bleeding blood vessels
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ICD-10 code for rectal bleeding?
The main code is K62.5, which stands for hemorrhage of the anus and rectum. In some cases, R19.5 may also be used.
How can I stop rectal bleeding at home?
Start with more fiber, more fluids, and sitz baths. If bleeding does not stop, contact Dr. Scott.
When should I go to the ER for rectal bleeding?
Seek help right away if you have heavy bleeding, feel dizzy, have chest pain, or feel weak.
Can rectal bleeding be a sign of colon cancer?
Yes. Polyps and cancer can cause blood in the stool. That's why testing is important, especially after age 45.
Is rectal bleeding always painful?
No. Internal hemorrhoids and polyps can bleed without pain.
How quickly will I feel better?
Many people feel better in a few days with the right treatment. Some procedures may need a short recovery period.
