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Bleeding in the Rectum

Bleeding from the rectum may result from the lower part of your colon or rectum, or from the last part of your large intestine. You may see blood on your stools, on toilet paper, or in the toilet. There are many causes for bleeding of the rectum, such as constipation or hemorrhoids. It is important to see a physician if you experience bleeding from your rectum to rule out any other serious conditions, such as rectal cancer. Treatments can vary depending on the severity of your condition.

  1. Causes

    • Bleeding from the rectum can be the result of hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in your lower rectum. When you have a bowel movement, this can cause the hemorrhoids to become inflamed and bleed. You can also develop bleeding due to constipation. If you strain to have a bowel movement, you can cause bleeding. Fissures can develop if you have severe constipation or diarrhea. According to Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology, fissures are like having cracked lips, but in the rectum. Fissures can cause bleeding when you strain too much.

    Serious Causes

    • Bleeding from the rectum can also be the result of more serious complications, such as polyps, cancer or a protrusion of the rectum. Some people develop polyps in the colon. They are usually benign, but they can grow to be large. The polyps can then bleed and you can pass the blood when you have a bowel movement. Some polyps can become cancerous. A usual sign of colon cancer is bleeding from the rectum. In older adults, a condition known as protrusion of the rectum can occur. According to Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology, a protrusion of the rectum results in weakened tissues in the rectum. Part of the rectum may protrude from the anus and cause bleeding.

    Seeing a Doctor

    • You should see a physician if you have rectal bleeding that lasts for more than two days. Other signs of concern include bleeding that is heavy or continuous, bleeding that is accompanied by severe rectal pain and fever, or bleeding that is accompanied by abdominal cramping and pain.

    Diagnosis

    • Your physician will take a medical history of your condition. According to Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology, asking specific questions about your condition may help reveal the underlying cause of your bleeding. A visual exam will also be conducted to look at the affected area and locate any tearing or hemorrhoids. An endoscopy may be performed to check for polyps. A barium enema, which uses liquid barium to highlight your intestines, can check for possible tumors.

    Treatments

    • Treatment will vary, depending on the severity of your bleeding. For example, if you suffer from constipation, including more fiber into your diet and drinking more water can develop softer stools. If you have a protrusion of the rectum, surgery to fix the protrusion may be your only option. Fissures and hemorrhoids can be alleviated with warm baths, or using baby wipes after having a bowel movement. Avoid using scented soaps or toilet tissue if you have hemorrhoids or fissures, as this can exacerbate your symptoms.

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