Rectal Bleeding

photo by Chris

Rectal bleeding can be caused by both "natural" or "unnatural" causes which are broken down to natural being of an internal nature and Unnatural being of an external nature - caused by a non-biological phenomena. Generally speaking however, rectal bleeding is defined as the presence of bright red blood on or in the stool. As it is not always noticeable in the stool, physicians advise that you check toilet paper and the toilet bowl itself for traces of blood as they will likely show up there as well if any blood is present in a bowel movement.

There are several common causes of rectal bleeding and as is true with many conditions some are more serious than others. If you find that you are having problems with rectal bleeding that persist or are of a high volume it is advised you consult a doctor sooner rather than later.

Causes of rectal bleeding

by Jennifer Kirkman

Rectal bleeding is serious in most cases and can have a number of different causes. The cause depends upon your other symptoms and what they may all be connected to. One not so serious cause for rectal bleeding is an anal fissure. Anal fissures are ... More>

Casuses of and treatment for rectal bleeding

by Lynette Alice

Anal bleeding is a terrifying thing to identify as taking place the first time you encounter it, but in all reality it is not anything to be overly alarmed about. In the vast majority of cases it is nothing more than discharge due to hemorrhoids, bu... More>

What causes blood in the stool of cats

by Janet Farricelli CPDT-KA

Upon noticing blood in the stool many cat owners may become concerned, perhaps primarily because they have learned to associate the presence of blood with the intimidating letter ''C'', however, it may be reassuring for cat owners to learn that unli... More>

What is hematochezia?

by Nicole Evans M.D.

Hematochezia is a medical term that refers to the passage of blood from the rectum. The blood of hematochezia is usually maroon or dark red. This blood has not been altered by enzymes and acids of the stomach. This type of gastroin... More>

Early signs of colorectal cancer

by Tina Samuels

Colorectal cancer is the combination of colon cancer and rectal cancer. When cells in the colon or the rectum start to multiple without control and form tumors in this area, it is called colorectal cancer; cancer cells in the colon is colon cancer a... More>

What is a digital rectal exam?

by Callista Meyer

A digital rectal exam is an examination of the lower rectum to check for any abnormalities in men or women. Generally, this exam is performed at routine physical check ups but may be used prior to other exams such as a colonoscopy. There are no rela... More>

Possible Causes Of Rectal Bleeding

* Hemmorhoids -Swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus which may be external or internal.

* Anal Fissures - Tears that are usually about 1/2" long to the interior of the anus which can be caused by evacuating your bowels or anal sex

* Diverticula - Pouches or weak areas of the colon that can trap a bowel not allowing it to be passed. When this happens the pouch are becomes inflamed and possibly infected which can lead to bleeding.

* Intestinal Infection - Usually caused by a flu which results in bloody diarrhea that normally passes withing 72 hours

* Inflammatory Bowel Disease - An irritation of the colon lining which is identified by abdominal pain, diarrhea, mucus, and blood in the stool

* Upper digestive system bleeding - Evidenced by constant or heavy bleeding and requires immediate medical attention

Note: Colon cancer is a possible cause of rectal bleeding, however the blood will usually be within the stool and not easy to see usually requiring a special test to identify it

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Quick Facts

* Rectal Bleeding is not considered normal under any circumstances

* The most common cause of rectal bleeding is hemmorhoids

* The best way to avoid rectal bleeding is to keep your lower intestine healthy by:

A) Getting plenty of fiber in your diet

B) Drink plenty of fluids

C) Exercise regularly

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Rectal Bleeding information, causes, symptoms and treatments

Dr. Erin Dettrey of Gastroenterology Associates of York (www.gastroyork.com) explains causes, symptoms and diseases associated with rectal bleeding, or blood in the stool. Various gastrointestinal concerns can often be associated with rectal bleeding. Be sure to view other educational videos from Gastroenterology Associates of York at www.gastroyork.com.

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