What is Blood in the Stool?
Blood in the stool, medically known as hematochezia, is a symptom that indicates the presence of bleeding somewhere in the digestive tract. The blood can appear bright red or dark in color and may be visible on the toilet paper, in the toilet bowl, or mixed with the stool.
What Causes Blood in the Stool?
The causes of blood in the stool range from benign to serious. Common causes include hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and diverticulosis. Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, as well as colorectal cancer, are also significant contributors.
What are the Symptoms of Blood in the Stool?
Symptoms accompanying blood in the stool can include abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and weight loss. The appearance of the blood—whether bright red or tar-like black—can provide clues to the location of the bleeding.
How is Blood in the Stool Diagnosed?
Diagnosis begins with a medical history and physical examination. Tests may include a fecal occult blood test, colonoscopy, endoscopy, or imaging studies like a CT scan to determine the source of bleeding.
How is Blood in the Stool Treated?
Treatment for blood in the stool depends on the underlying cause. For hemorrhoids or anal fissures, topical treatments and increased fiber intake may be recommended. Inflammatory bowel diseases might require medication or surgery. If cancer is detected, treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
