What is wrong when there blood in stool?

Blood in the stool (rectal bleeding) can have a variety of causes, ranging from minor and temporary to serious and potentially life-threatening. It is important to seek medical attention if you notice blood in your stool, so that the cause can be identified and treated. Some of the possible causes of blood in the stool include:

Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum or anus. They can cause painless rectal bleeding, especially during bowel movements.

Anal fissure: An anal fissure is a small tear in the skin of the anus. It can also cause painless rectal bleeding, often associated with constipation or passing hard stools.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): IBD is a group of conditions that cause inflammation and ulceration of the digestive tract. Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are two types of IBD that can cause bloody diarrhea.

Colonic polyps: Colonic polyps are abnormal growths on the lining of the colon or rectum. They can be harmless or may develop into colorectal cancer. Polyps can sometimes cause rectal bleeding.

Colorectal cancer: Colorectal cancer is cancer of the colon or rectum. It can cause rectal bleeding, which may be painless and intermittent at first.

Diverticular disease: Diverticular disease is a condition in which small pouches (diverticula) develop in the colon. When these pouches become inflamed or infected (diverticulitis), they can cause rectal bleeding.

Angiodysplasia: Angiodysplasia is a condition in which abnormal blood vessels develop in the digestive tract. These blood vessels can rupture and cause rectal bleeding.

Ischemic colitis: Ischemic colitis occurs when there is a lack of blood flow to the colon. This can cause damage to the colon and rectal bleeding.

Infectious colitis: Infectious colitis is inflammation of the colon caused by an infection. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Infectious colitis can cause bloody diarrhea.

In addition to these causes, blood in the stool can also be caused by certain medications, such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and anticoagulants (blood thinners).

If you notice blood in your stool, it is important to see a healthcare provider for an evaluation. This will help to identify the cause of the bleeding and determine the appropriate treatment.