WHY DO I HAVE BLOOD IN MY STOOL? DIGESTIVE DISORDERS: WHY DO I HAVE BLOOD IN MY STOOL?

EXAMPLES OF DANGEROUS SIGNIFICANCE

Blood in your stool could indicate an issue with your digestive system.

You may observe blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl after wiping. The hue can range from brilliant red to practically black, and the shade might reveal important information about what's going on. Rectal bleeding can be a sign of a variety of diseases, some of which are serious and others which are not. It could be an indication of a problem anywhere in your digestive tract, from your oesophagus to your anus, and everywhere in between.

FISSURES OF THE ANAL

Constipation and firm stools are the most common causes of these microscopic tears in the skin around the anus. You may experience pain during and after bowel motions, in addition to bright red blood. To alleviate the condition, increase your fibre intake or use a stool softener. A warm bath may also be beneficial. If it doesn't improve, your doctor may prescribe a lotion to relieve the pain.

HEMORRHOIDS

This is the most common cause of rectal bleeding, and it's usually the kind that leaves a stain on the toilet paper. When the veins in your anus and rectum expand, this happens. Obesity, pregnancy, and straining during bowel motions are among the causes. It's not a life or death situation. Hemorrhoids induce itching, pain, and irritation in addition to bleeding. Your condition might improve if you eat more fibre, drink more water, avoid sitting for lengthy periods of time, and move more. Using over-the-counter lotions or soaking in a sitz bath can also help.

POLYPS

Although benign growths in the colon rarely cause bleeding during bowel movements, it is conceivable and can occur gradually over time. Changes in the colour of your stool and changes in your bowel habits that last longer than a week or two are other indications. Because polyps can turn into cancer, it's critical to locate and remove them as soon as possible. Make sure you're aware of when a colonoscopy and other cancer screening tests are due.

PROBLEMS WITH ESOPHAGUS

Blood that shows up in your stool can come from the tube that links your oesophagus to your stomach. GERD is a common reason (gastroesophageal reflux disease). Another concern is a tear in this tissue, which is more common in persons who use excessive amounts of alcohol on a daily basis. Swollen veins in this location are common in people with liver disease, and they can bleed. Drugs that limit acid can be used to treat GERD. Other conditions may necessitate surgical intervention.

WHAT SHOULD I DO?

If you notice a small amount of bright red blood in your bowel movement, you may have a slight problem. It's crucial to keep track of any other symptoms you're experiencing and to consult your doctor if you suspect a problem like colon cancer. Stools that are maroon or tarry are frequently a symptom of a more serious problem that should be addressed right once. Get emergency care if you notice a lot of blood, feel lightheaded, or your heartbeat is racing.