When people start to see blood in the stool, it might get alarming. Because of this people immediately assume it might be caused by piles (haemorrhoids) and tend to ignore it. Yes piles can be a common reason for this rectal bleeding. But still if there is blood in the stool it should never be dismissed without a proper medical exam.
Not all bleeding is due to piles
Piles occurs if the veins in the lower rectum or anus swells up which can cause bright red blood in bowel movements. Symptoms can also be caused by a range of other conditions like an anal fissure, inflammatory bowel disease like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. Or sometimes it could be intestinal infections, a diverticular disease or polyps in the colon. In a worst case scenario it can even indicate colorectal cancer.
This is why self-diagnosis should be avoided in the case of rectal bleeding.
When should you be seeing a doctor?
Seeking medical advice should be sought out if there is blood in the stool, but if it is also associated with:
● a persistent abdominal pain
● change in bowel habits (like constipation / diarrhoea)
● unexplained loss in weight
● if there may be fatigue or symptoms of anaemia
● family history of colorectal cancer or an inflammatory bowel disease
● if there is increasing frequency and quantity of bleeding
Early evaluation can make all the difference
While many cases of rectal bleeding are linked to benign conditions like haemorrhoids or anal fissures, it is still quite essential to stress the importance of ruling out a more serious cause. Some conditions which are affecting the digestive tract can often present itself with symptoms in its early stages.
It is good news that some early detection frequently leads to a better outcome. Colon polyps can be identified and removed before it has the chance to develop into cancer. Similarly, if it is a more serious condition is identified then early intervention can expand treatment options and also improve the likelihood of successful management.
Instead of waiting for symptoms to worsen or instead of assuming that the bleeding will resolve automatically, it is encouraged to take medical advice if patients are noticing blood in their stool. Timely diagnosis can help to provide some reassurance if cause is harmless. It also ensures that potentially serious conditions are detected and