Blood in Stool: Six Common Causes from Hemorrhoids to Colorectal Cancer
Rectal bleeding has varied causes:
- Hemorrhoids: Swollen rectal veins; bright red blood on paper/toilet.
- Anal Fissure: Small tear from constipation/diarrhea; bright red streaks.
- Diverticular Disease: Inflamed colonic pouches; bright/dark red blood, abdominal pain, fever.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn's, ulcerative colitis): Bright/dark blood, diarrhea, weight loss, fever.
- Colorectal Cancer: Dark red/black blood mixed with stool/mucus; bowel habit changes, weight loss, fatigue.
- Other: Medications (NSAIDs), stomach ulcers, GI infections.
See a doctor for persistent bleeding, accompanying symptoms, or cancer risk factors.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease - Related Articles
- Crohn's Disease & Steroids: Understanding Risks & Benefits
- Alcohol and Crohn's Disease: What You Need to Know
- Understanding Female Rectal Bleeding: Causes, Symptoms & When to Seek Help
- Ulcerative Colitis: Understanding Treatment and Management
- IBS Diet: Manage Symptoms & Improve Gut Health | [Your Brand/Website Name]
- Galactosemia vs. Tay-Sachs: Two Inborn Errors of Metabolism Compared
- Fish Oil for Ulcerative Colitis: Evidence Review, Dosing, and Clinical Considerations