Blood in your poop is not normal. Whether it’s in the stool, around the stool, or after the stool, it represents a problem of varying severity. If you notice blood in your poop, report it to your family physician for investigation. It’s that simple.
Here are some key points about blood in your stool:
- Color and Appearance:
- Bright red blood in the stool is usually associated with conditions like hemorrhoids or anal fissures. These conditions are rarely dangerous.
- If the blood is dark, it may indicate bleeding higher up in the digestive tract.
- Black tar-like stool could be a sign of bleeding from the right side of the colon, which might be associated with colorectal cancer.
- Causes:
- Hemorrhoids: Swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus.
- Anal fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus.
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
- Colorectal cancer: Abnormal growth of cells in the colon or rectum.
- Seek Medical Attention:
- If you notice blood in your stool, contact a healthcare provider.
- Fecal immunochemical tests (FIT) are used to examine stool microscopically and detect hidden blood, especially when it comes to colorectal cancer screening.
Remember, early detection and timely medical evaluation are crucial. Don’t ignore any signs of blood in your poop, even if there’s no pain.