Have you ever noticed going out of the bathroom with a little amount of bright-red to dark blood within the toilet bowl, on the toilet paper, or in your stool?  It is most likely you are encountering rectal bleeding. Hemorrhoids are the foremost cause of rectal bleeding, but there are numerous conceivable reasons it might occur. Do not panic, have a self-assessment, and here is some information on rectal bleeding.

The foremost clear sign of rectal bleeding is red blood on toilet tissue or obvious blood or red-tinged stool within the toilet bowl. In any case, it’s imperative you pay attention to the color of the blood (and the color of your stools) because it can show diverse things: Bright red blood shows bleeding in some place within the lower gastrointestinal tract, such as the colon or rectum. Dark red or wine-colored blood may demonstrate bleeding within the small intestine. Black, tarry stools may demonstrate bleeding from the stomach or the upper portion of the small intestine. Additional indications related to rectal bleeding include fainting, rectal pain, confusion, feeling dizzy, abdominal pain, or cramping.

Serious rectal bleeding can constitute a medical emergency. Go to an emergency room in case you’re also encountering any of the following symptoms: cold, clammy skin, confusion, continuous rectal bleeding, fainting and dizziness, painful stomach, cramping, rapid breathing, severe anal pain, severe nausea, and blood in vomit. Make an arrangement to see your doctor in case you encounter less serious rectal bleeding, such as little drops of blood from the rectum. Since a little amount of rectal bleeding can rapidly turn into a large amount, looking for treatment within the early stages is imperative.

Most cases of rectal bleeding in middle-aged and older individuals are due to hemorrhoids. In around 95 percent, rectal bleeding will stop without treatment, but this doesn’t mean the basic cause has moreover disappeared. Statistics recommend that only 40 percent of individuals with rectal bleeding look for medical assistance, but bleeding can moreover be a sign of a serious condition, such as cancer, so you shouldn’t disregard it in the event that it happens.

At home, one way to calm the pain and discomfort of hemorrhoids may be by taking warm showers. Applying over-the-counter or medicine creams can diminish irritation. If anal fissures result from clogging, treating constipation may permit the gaps to heal. At-home medications to avoid constipation can decrease the chance of rectal bleeding. These include: eating high-fiber nourishments (unless otherwise coordinated by your doctor), asking a specialist or drug specialist about stool softeners, exercising frequently to avoid constipation, keeping the rectal zone clean, and staying well hydrated.

Rectal bleeding could be a common issue and regularly results from a minor issue, such as hemorrhoids. In any case, it can moreover be a sign of a more serious illness, such as colorectal cancer. Seeking early intervention is important to prevent further complications that may lead to much more serious conditions.

PDO I Kimberly M. Tanador, RND

References:

1.  Rectal Bleeding

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/14612-rectal-bleeding

2. Blood in Stool

https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/blood-in-stool

3. Blood in the Stool (Rectal Bleeding, Hematochezia)

https://www.medicinenet.com/blood_in_the_stool_rectal_bleeding/article.htm