Minor rectal bleeding is when a little fresh blood or drops of bright red blood can be seen in the toilet bowl, toilet paper, or stools. Minor rectal bleeding isn’t typically life threatening and can be easily treatable. Though it can also be a symptom of colon cancer, which when detected early can be cured.
The key takeaway, any rectal should be addressed and evaluated by a gastroenterologist. This has become even more important with rectal cancer on the rise in younger people. Note that black or maroon color stools or a greater amount of blood, can be a sign of something more serious and should be evaluated promptly.
Minor Rectal Bleeding Can Be Caused By A Number Of Things:
Anal Fissures
Rectal ulcers
Proctitis (inflammation of the rectum)
Hemorrhoids
Colon or anal cancer
Rectal or colon polyps
Anal Fissures
These mall tears in the lining of the anus are anal fissures are typically caused by passing hard stools, constipation, inflammation, or diarrhea. Bleeding from the rectum isn’t the only thing anal fissures can cause, they can be very painful, cause a feeling of burning, or a tearing sensation
There are a variety of treatments for anal fissures, some simple remedies include stool softeners, fiber supplements and laxatives. An evaluation from a gastroenterologist can prescribe ointment to help the healing process and creams to soothe the inflammation. More severe cases may require further treatment.
Proctitis
Proctitis is when the lining of the rectum becomes inflamed. It often causes the sensation of not completely emptying the bowels after using the bathroom or the frequent urge to have a bowel movement, rectal pain, bleeding or passing mucus through the rectum.
Proctitis can be caused by various cancers, infections, medications, or a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It is important to see a gastroenterologist’s to find the cause and an effective treatment.
Check back with us next week for more reasons why you may have rectal bleeding. Until then, contact Gastroenterology Consultants of Central Florida.