Blood in Stool
Noticing blood in your stool can be alarming, but it’s not always a sign of something serious. In many cases, it may be caused by minor issues like haemorrhoids or small tears. Still, it’s important to understand what’s normal, what’s not, and when to seek medical attention.
What Does Blood in Stool Look Like?
Blood in stool can appear in different ways depending on the cause and location of the bleeding in your digestive tract:
- Bright red blood: Often comes from the lower gastrointestinal tract, such as the rectum or anus.
- Dark red or maroon blood: May indicate bleeding higher up in the colon or small intestine.
- Black, tar-like stool (melena): Suggests bleeding from the upper GI tract, such as the stomach or oesophagus.
Sometimes the blood is visible on toilet paper, in the toilet bowl, or mixed with stool. In other cases, it’s only detected through testing.
Common Causes of Blood in Stool
Haemorrhoids
Swollen veins in the rectum or anus that can bleed during bowel movements—especially when straining.
Anal Fissures
Small tears in the lining of the anus, often due to passing hard or large stools.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can cause rectal bleeding along with other symptoms like diarrhoea and abdominal pain.
Colorectal Polyps or Cancer
Polyps are non-cancerous growths that can bleed and may develop into colorectal cancer over time.
How is Blood in Stool Diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically starts with a medical history and physical exam. Your doctor may perform a digital rectal exam or recommend tests such as:
- Colonoscopy – to examine the entire colon and rectum for bleeding sources
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy – to view the lower part of the colon
- Stool PCR – to check for infections particularly if there is diarrhoea with blood and suspected food poisoning
- Imaging tests – such as CT colonography in selected cases
Can It be Prevented?
In some cases, yes. These steps can help reduce your risk:
- Eat a high-fibre diet to prevent constipation and straining
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid prolonged sitting on the toilet
- Get screened for colon cancer if you’re aged 45 or older, or earlier if you’re at higher risk
- Manage chronic digestive conditions with the help of a specialist
When to Consult a Gastroenterologist
Finding blood in your stool can be unsettling but don’t panic. While the cause is often benign, it’s always worth getting checked – especially if the bleeding persists or is accompanied by other symptoms. Early detection and treatment can make a big difference.
An experienced gastroenterologist can accurately diagnose your condition, rule out other serious issues, and develop a personalised management plan to help you find relief and prevent complications.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention promptly if you experience:
- Persistent or heavy rectal bleeding
- Black, tarry stools
- Dizziness or fatigue
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Unintended weight loss
- A family history of colorectal cancer
Even if the bleeding seems minor, it’s important to identify the underlying cause – especially if it occurs more than once.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the cause of the bleeding:
- Haemorrhoids or fissures: Often treated with dietary changes, topical creams, or sitz baths
- IBD: May require anti-inflammatory medications or immune system modulators
- Polyps or cancer: Polyps can be removed during a colonoscopy; cancer may require surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation
- Infections: Usually managed with antibiotics or supportive care
