Fresh red blood in the stool

Fresh red blood in stool – what could be the cause?

Fresh red blood usually comes from the lower gastrointestinal tract. It is most often seen during or after a bowel movement, sometimes floating in tissue or water. The possible causes are explained below—

1. Anal fissure:

This is a small hole or cut in the skin of the anus. Usually caused by hard stools, constipation, or sitting on the toilet for a long time. Mild burning, itching, and bleeding may occur during or after a bowel movement.

Blood type: Bright red, sticks to toilet paper or stool.

2. Piles or Hemorrhoids:

Swollen blood vessels inside or outside the anus are called piles. Constipation, pregnancy, weight gain, and sitting for a long time can cause this.

Blood type: Fresh blood may flow during or after a bowel movement, sometimes even without pain.

3. Infection or Proctitis:

Intestinal infection or inflammation can cause blood and mucus in the stool. This can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection.

Blood type: Thin, mucus-filled, and sometimes accompanied by a distended abdomen.

4. Diverticulosis:

This problem is more common in older adults. Small pouches form in the colon that can bleed suddenly.

Blood type: Profuse bleeding, usually painless.

5. Colon polyps or cancer:

Although relatively uncommon, blood in the stool can be an early sign of colon cancer. This risk usually increases with age.

Blood type: Dark or reddish blood, sometimes with black or tarry stools.

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What should you do if you see blood?

1. Don't panic: There is no need to panic if you see blood once or twice. However, if you see it repeatedly, you should pay attention.

2. Pay attention to the type of stool: Is the stool hard or soft? Is there mucus or a bad smell? Is it painful? These symptoms are important for diagnosis.

3. Drink water and eat fiber-rich foods: Constipation is often the main problem. Eating enough water (8–10 glasses) and fiber-rich foods (vegetables, fruits, grains) every day reduces constipation and reduces the risk of fissures or piles.

4. Avoid sitting on the toilet with pressure: Sitting on the toilet for more than 5 minutes continuously puts pressure on the blood vessels, which increases piles.

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When should you see a doctor?

If you see blood more than once

If you see dark or black blood

If you have abdominal pain, fever, weight loss, or loss of appetite

If you have a family history of colon cancer

If you are over 45 years old

Tests that your doctor may perform:

Rectal examination (Digital Rectal Exam)

Sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy

Blood test

Stool test

These are done to see where the bleeding is coming from and what its nature is.

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How is the treatment done?

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. For example—

If you have fissures or piles:

The doctor may recommend anal gels, painkillers, fiber supplements, and, if necessary, surgery.

If you have an infection:

Necessary antibiotics and antiparasitic medications are given.

If you have diverticulosis or tumors:

The doctor decides whether surgery is necessary.

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Prevention and self-care tips

Drink enough water

Eat fiber-rich foods

Don't hold back your bowel movements

Keep your weight under control

Exercise

Make a habit of going to the toilet at the same time every day

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Last words:

Since fresh red blood in the stool is a symptom, it is not a disease, but only a sign of the disease. Although it is often due to harmless reasons, if neglected, it can turn into a big problem. Therefore, if it is regular or recurring, it is wise to consult a doctor without delay.