Blood in Stools
Blood in Stools – Complete Overview
Blood in stools (also called rectal bleeding) is a symptom that should never be ignored. It may appear as bright red blood, dark maroon blood, or black tarry stools depending on the source of bleeding.
This condition can result from minor issues like piles or serious conditions like ulcers or inflammatory bowel disease.
Early diagnosis is important to identify the exact cause and begin the right treatment.
Symptoms Associated with Blood in Stools
Symptoms may vary depending on the cause of bleeding:
- Bright red blood coating the stool
- Dark or tarry stools
- Abdominal pain or cramps
- Painful bowel movements
- Mucus in stools
- Weakness or fatigue (if bleeding is chronic)
- Unexplained weight loss (in serious cases)
Causes of Blood in Stools
Blood in stools can have multiple causes ranging from mild to serious. Some common causes include:
- Piles (Hemorrhoids)
- Anal fissures (small tears around anus)
- Gastric or duodenal ulcers
- Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s / Ulcerative colitis)
- Diverticulitis
- Infections in intestines
- Colon polyps
- Colorectal cancer (rare but serious)
- Long-term use of painkillers (NSAIDs)
Treatment Options for Blood in Stools
Treatment depends completely on the underlying cause. Diagnosis may require stool tests, blood tests, endoscopy, or colonoscopy.
Lifestyle & Home Care
- Increase fibre intake to soften stool
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid straining during bowel movements
- Maintain regular bowel habits
- Avoid spicy and greasy foods
Medical Treatments
- For Piles: Ointments, Sitz bath, Laser treatment
- For Fissures: Pain-relief creams, stool softeners
- For Ulcers: Antacids, PPIs, antibiotics (if H. pylori)
- For IBD: Anti-inflammatory medicines
- For infections: Antibiotics (as prescribed)
Rectal bleeding should always be evaluated by a specialist to rule out serious causes.
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