Bleeding While Passing Stools: Symptoms, Causes, Types, and Treatment

Passing blood during a bowel movement can be alarming. Whether it’s bright red or dark and tarry, rectal bleeding is not normal and should never be ignored. It can range from harmless conditions like hemorrhoids to more serious issues such as colorectal cancer.

This blog breaks down the symptoms, causes, types, diagnosis, and treatment options for bleeding while passing stools.

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Symptoms of Bleeding While Passing Stools

Bleeding can present in different ways, depending on its cause and source. Common signs include:

• Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl

• Dark or tar-like stools (melena)

• Blood mixed with stool

• Pain during bowel movements

• Anal itching or swelling

• Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation)

• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue (in chronic cases)

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Common Causes of Bleeding During Bowel Movements

Bleeding can occur anywhere in the digestive tract, from the esophagus to the rectum, but rectal or anal sources are most common.

1. Hemorrhoids (Piles)

• Swollen veins in the rectum or anus

• Painless bright red bleeding

• May cause itching or a lump near the anus

2. Anal Fissures

• Small tear in the lining of the anus

• Sharp pain and bright red bleeding during or after passing stool

3. Colorectal Polyps or Cancer

• Polyps may bleed occasionally

• Colorectal cancer may cause persistent bleeding, anemia, or changes in bowel habits

4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

• Ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease

• Blood and mucus in stools, abdominal cramps, diarrhea

5. Gastrointestinal Infections

• Bacterial infections like E. coli, Salmonella, or Shigella

• Cause bloody diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain

6. Diverticulosis or Diverticulitis

• Pouches in the colon wall that may bleed or get infected

7. Proctitis

• Inflammation of the rectum due to infections, radiation therapy, or IBD

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Types of Rectal Bleeding

The color and nature of blood can indicate its source:

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Diagnosis of Rectal Bleeding

1. Medical History & Physical Exam

• Anal inspection, digital rectal exam

2. Diagnostic Tests

• Proctoscopy or Anoscopy – to view the anal canal

• Colonoscopy – to inspect the colon for polyps, tumors, or IBD

• Stool tests – for infections or occult blood

• Blood tests – to check for anemia or infection

• Imaging – CT scans or MRI for deeper investigation

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Treatment of Bleeding While Passing Stools

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of bleeding.

1. Home Care & Lifestyle Changes

• High-fiber diet to avoid constipation

• Adequate hydration

• Sitz baths for hemorrhoids and fissures

• Avoid straining during bowel movements

2. Medications

• Topical creams – for hemorrhoids or fissures

• Antibiotics – for infections

• Anti-inflammatory drugs – for IBD

• Laxatives or stool softeners – to ease bowel movements

3. Procedures & Surgery

• Rubber band ligation or sclerotherapy – for hemorrhoids

• Fissurectomy or sphincterotomy – for chronic fissures

• Polyp removal (polypectomy) – during colonoscopy

• Surgery – for severe diverticulitis, tumors, or non-responsive IBD

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When to Seek Immediate Medical Help

You should seek prompt medical attention if you experience:

• Heavy or persistent bleeding

• Dizziness or fainting

• Blood mixed with mucus or pus

• Severe abdominal pain

• Unexplained weight loss

• Signs of infection (fever, chills)

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Prevention Tips

• Eat a fiber-rich diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)

• Stay well-hydrated

• Avoid prolonged sitting on the toilet

• Exercise regularly

• Get regular colorectal cancer screenings after age 45

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Conclusion

While minor rectal bleeding is often caused by treatable conditions like hemorrhoids or fissures, persistent or heavy bleeding can indicate more serious problems like colorectal cancer or IBD. Don’t ignore the signs — early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference.

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FAQs:

Q: Is bleeding after a hard stool normal?
A: Occasionally, yes. It may be due to a minor tear or hemorrhoid, but repeated bleeding should be evaluated.

Q: Can stress cause blood in stools?
A: Stress doesn’t directly cause bleeding but can aggravate conditions like IBS or IBD which might cause bleeding.

Q: Is blood in stool always cancer?
A: No. Hemorrhoids and fissures are far more common, but it’s crucial to rule out serious causes through tests.