Blood in Stool? – is it a Severe Problem?

It is essential to pay attention to signs and symptoms for early detection and effective treatment. One such indication that often raises concern is the presence of blood in the stool. Blood in the stool can be an alarming sign, prompting people to seek immediate medical attention. This blog post explores the several aspects of blood in the stool, including whether it’s a serious issue and what to do if you notice this concerning symptom. Dr. Samrat Jankar, a colorectal specialist in Pune, will provide valuable insights into this concerning issue.

Knowing the Basics:

Rectal bleeding, also referred to as blood in the stool, is frequently personified by two symptoms: bright red blood or darker, tarry stools. Certain causes might indicate major underlying health problems, while others can signify serious underlying health issues.

Causes of Blood in Stool:

It’s important to realize that blood in the stool is not always an indication of a serious disease. There are several possible reasons for blood in the stool, ranging from mild problems to more serious diseases. Numerous factors could be at play, some of which are simply treatable and rather frequent.

Here are some of the most common causes of blood in stool:

Hemorrhoids: These swollen veins in the rectum or anus are a very common reason for bright red blood on stool or toilet paper.
Anal fissures: These small tears in the lining of the anus can cause bright red or maroon blood lining on stool or toilet paper. They are frequently caused by persistent diarrhea or hard-to-pass stools.
Diverticulitis: This colon pocket inflammation can result in fever, stomach pain, and bleeding, which is typically maroon or dark red.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease can cause chronic inflammation of the intestines, leading to bloody stools, often accompanied by abdominal pain and diarrhea.
Peptic ulcers: These open sores in the lining of the abdomen or duodenum can bleed, causing dark red or black stools, as well as abdominal pain and heartburn.
Gastrointestinal Infections: Infections of the gastrointestinal tract, such as bacterial or viral illnesses, can cause inflammation and irritation, leading to bleeding.
Colorectal Polyps: Polyps are uncommon growths in the colon or rectum. Bleeding may occur if these polyps bleed or rupture, leading to blood in the stool.
Colorectal Cancer: Colorectal cancer is a serious disorder that can cause bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. Blood in the stool may be an early sign of colorectal cancer
Ischemic Colitis: Decreased blood flow to the colon due to various aspects, such as blood vessel blockages, can result in ischemic colitis. This infection may cause bleeding and abdominal pain.

When to Be Worry About Blood in Stool:

While blood in the stool might sometimes indicate a benign condition, it can also occasionally indicate a dangerous illness. You should see a doctor if:

You’re passing bright red blood or blood clots.
There could be bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract if your feces are dark and tarry.
You experience severe abdominal pain or cramping.
You get lightheadedness or dizziness.
You have a fever.
You notice a small amount of bright red blood on your toilet paper or mixed in with your stool
The blood is either maroon or dark red.
You’ve experienced prolonged periods of blood in your feces.
You have a lot of pain in your bottom
You have pain or a lump in your stomach
You have heavy bleeding
You feel chills, a fever, weakness, fainting, or vomiting in addition to bleeding.

Blood in Stool Diagnosis:

If you notice blood in your stool, you must seek medical attention immediately. To identify the cause of the blood in the stool, Dr. Samrat Jankar will go over several diagnostic techniques. One of the most popular methods for identifying the underlying problem is a colonoscopy. Stool tests may be conducted to detect the presence of blood or recognize potential infections. Blood tests can provide useful details about overall health and potential systemic issues.

Prevention Strategies for Blood in Stool:

Here are some general prevention strategies recommended by the best colorectal specialist in Pune, Dr. Samrat Jankar, that can help lower your risk of experiencing blood in stool:

Maintain a healthy diet
Stay hydrated
Avoid certain medicines
Get regular exercise
Avoid straining during bowel movements.
Utilize a stool softener if you have trouble passing stool.
Wipe gently after bowel movements.
Avoid anal sex, which can upset the rectum and lead to bleeding.
Limit alcohol and caffeine
Avoid spicy foods
Maintain good anal hygiene

Conclusion:

It is important to take notice of the symptoms of blood in the stool. Dr. Samrat Jankar’s expertise will guide you through understanding the potential causes and severity of this issue. The goal of the blog is to empower people to take control of their health and seek appropriate action when necessary by highlighting the need for early medical consultation.