Rectal Bleeding - Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Symptoms of Rectal Bleeding: Causes & Early Detection

Rectal bleeding, or blood in the stool, is a symptom that various health conditions may cause, some trivial and others severe. While it may be easy to dismiss occasional spotting, regular or heavy rectal bleeding should never be ignored. It could serve as a valuable indicator of problems in the rectal or gastrointestinal system.

Awareness of rectal bleeding, its symptoms, etiology, and management is essential for early intervention and appropriate treatment. Read ahead for a detailed overview of rectal bleeding, its common causes, and safe ways to stop it.

What is Rectal Bleeding?

Bleeding from the rectum refers to visible blood coming from the anus, typically found in or on stool, in the toilet, or on toilet tissue. Depending on the bleeding site, it may appear bright red, dark maroon, or black. It can occur with or without pain, and the amount may range from a few drops to a considerable quantity.

In medical classification, rectal bleeding ICD 10 code is K62.5, which stands for "Hemorrhage of anus and rectum." This helps healthcare providers correctly identify and document the condition for diagnostics and insurance claims.

What are the Symptoms of Rectal Bleeding?

Understanding the symptoms of rectal bleeding is the first step in identifying the underlying cause. These include:

• Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl
• Blood streaks on the stool surface
• Dark, tarry stools (melena), indicating upper gastrointestinal bleeding
• Anal pain or discomfort
• Mucus in stool
• Frequent urge to pass stools (tenesmus)
• Abdominal cramping or bloating

Heavy blood loss can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and anemia.

What are the Causes of Rectal Bleeding?

There are several causes of rectal bleeding, ranging from minor to life-threatening. They include:

1. Hemorrhoids : The most common cause of rectal bleeding is congested blood vessels within the rectum or anus. The bleeding is usually bright red and painless and can occur during or after bowel movements, commonly observed on toilet paper or in the bowl.
2. Anal Fissures : Small tears in the anal lining caused by hard stools or constipation. These are usually accompanied by agonizing pain during bowel movements. Sometimes, the pain may persist, making future bowel movements painful.
3. Diverticulosis : Small pouches (diverticula) in the colon wall can bleed if inflamed or infected (diverticulitis). Bleeding from diverticula is typically sudden and painless, but can be significant.
4. Colorectal Polyps : These benign growths have the potential to become cancerous. They can cause intermittent bleeding, particularly if large. Regular colonoscopies help with early detection and removal to prevent the development of colorectal cancer.
5. Colorectal Cancer : One of the more critical causes, colorectal cancer, can lead to persistent or intermittent bleeding. Early diagnosis is key, as the condition may not present obvious symptoms in its initial stages apart from subtle blood in the stool.
6. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) : Chronic inflammation from conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis leads to ulcers and bleeding. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, fatigue, diarrhea, weight loss, or a combination.
7. Gastrointestinal Infections : Certain bacterial infections can cause bloody diarrhea, especially if they damage the intestinal lining. These infections are often accompanied by fever, abdominal cramps, and an urgent need to defecate.
8. Proctitis : Infection, radiation therapy, or autoimmune disorders can cause inflammation of the rectum, leading to rectal bleeding. Symptoms may also include pain, urgency, and mucus discharge.
9. Upper GI Bleeding : Bleeding from the stomach or small intestine may present as black, tarry stools. Common causes include ulcers, gastritis, or esophageal varices.

Understanding what rectal bleeding is and its potential causes ensures immediate medical attention. Accurate diagnosis allows for prompt and effective treatment, preventing complications.

What are the Treatment Options for Rectal Bleeding

Rectal bleeding treatment depends on the underlying cause, severity, and the patient's general condition. The most common treatments are:

1. Home remedies for minor cases

• Increase fiber intake: Helps soften stool and reduce straining.
• Drink more water: Prevents constipation.
• Use warm sitz baths: Relieves discomfort from hemorrhoids or fissures.
• Over-the-counter ointments: Such as hydrocortisone creams for hemorrhoids.

2. Medication Treatments

Depending on the diagnosis, your doctor may prescribe:

• Hemorrhoid banding or sclerotherapy: To treat bleeding hemorrhoids.
• Topical or oral medications: For inflammatory bowel disease or infections.
• Endoscopic procedures: To identify and cauterize bleeding sources.
• Polyp removal: Via colonoscopy for prevention of cancer.
• Surgery: In severe or cancerous cases.

3. Iron Supplements or Blood Transfusion

If bleeding is significant and causes anemia, iron therapy or even a blood transfusion may be necessary.

4. Cancer Treatment

If colorectal cancer is diagnosed, treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation.

How to Stop Rectal Bleeding?

If you’re wondering how to stop rectal bleeding, here are some practical steps:

• Don’t strain during bowel movements; use stool softeners if needed.
• Apply cold packs for hemorrhoids to reduce swelling.
• Maintain a high-fiber diet with whole grains, vegetables, and fruits.
• Seek medical care immediately if the bleeding persists or intensifies.
• Get screened annually if you are older than 45 or if you have a family history of colon cancer.
• Never self-diagnose repeated bleeding, as early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.

When to See a Doctor?

You should see a doctor if you experience:

• Rectal bleeding that doesn't resolve after a few days,
• Bleeding accompanied by mucus or pus,
• Black, tar-like stools,
• Unintended weight loss,
• Stationary pain,
• Persistent abdominal pain,
• Changes in bowel habits.

Doctors can recommend tests such as a digital rectal exam, colonoscopy, or imaging tests.

Medical conditions like rectal bleeding can require diagnostic tests and specialist consultations. Comprehensive health insurance can mitigate such costs. Reputable insurers like Star Health cover diagnostic tests, hospitalization, surgeries, and post-surgery care, depending on the policy. Always check your health plan to ensure coverage for gastrointestinal conditions.

How to Prevent Rectal Bleeding?

Although not all causes can be avoided, you can reduce your risk by:

• Maintaining an adequate fiber intake,
• Staying well-hydrated,
• Avoiding long-term sitting on the toilet,
• Engaging in regular exercise,
• Having regular colon screenings after age 45 or earlier if at risk.

Bleeding in the rectum is a symptom that should not be ignored. Though most cases are treatable and harmless, some may indicate severe health complications that require immediate attention. Understanding rectal bleeding symptoms, knowing the causes, and seeking timely treatment are essential for maintaining good gastrointestinal health.

 If you are ever in doubt, consult a healthcare professional immediately and consider health coverage like Star Health to protect yourself against unexpected medical expenses.