Blood in the stool means that there is bleeding somewhere in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, and rectum. The presence of blood in stool can range from small, occasional amounts which are usually less serious, to larger, persistent amounts that may indicate a more serious condition requiring medical attention. The color of the blood—bright red, dark red, or black—can provide clues about the origin of the bleeding.
Causes of Blood in Stool
- Hemorrhoids : Swollen veins in the anus or rectum, very common and often linked with constipation or straining.
- Anal Fissures : Small tears in the lining of the anus caused by passing hard stools.
- Infections : Gastroenteritis or other infections causing inflammation and bleeding.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) : Conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis that cause chronic inflammation.
- Diverticulitis : Inflammation of small pouches in the colon.
- Polyps or Cancer : Growths in the colon or rectum, some of which can be cancerous.
- Ulcers : Such as stomach or peptic ulcers leading to bleeding higher in the GI tract.
- Medications : Blood thinners and iron supplements can cause bleeding or interact with the GI tract.
Appearance of Blood and What It Means
- Bright red blood : Usually from the lower GI tract such as the rectum or anus, often seen on toilet paper or stool surface.
- Dark red or tarry black stools : Suggest bleeding higher in the GI tract, like the stomach or small intestine, where the blood has been digested, altering its color.
When to Seek Medical Attention
- Heavy or persistent bleeding
- Blood mixed with stool or dark, tarry stools
- Accompanying symptoms like dizziness, fainting, abdominal pain, or weight loss
- Blood in stool lasting more than a few days or weeks
Blood in stool can sometimes be benign, such as from hemorrhoids, but it can also signal serious conditions like colorectal cancer. Therefore, any instance of blood in stool warrants medical evaluation to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.