What is Rectal Bleeding?

When blood is seen in stools or as streaks when wiping, this is called rectal bleeding. It’s a symptom, not a condition itself, indicating that there’s bleeding somewhere in the digestive tract.

By looking at the colour of the blood, doctors may be able to figure out where the bleeding is coming from. Seeing red blood that looks bright usually means the bleeding is near the anus such as from haemorrhoids or anal fissures.

When the blood looks dark and is sticky or tarry (melena), it usually comes from higher up in the digestive tract, since digestion has taken place. You may notice blood is mixed in your stool or notice blood clotting but no other signs.

It’s crucial not to ignore any instance of rectal bleeding, as it can be a sign of various underlying conditions, ranging from minor and easily treatable issues to more serious health concerns.

Can Rectal Bleeding Be Serious?

Yes, rectal bleeding can absolutely be serious, and it’s essential to seek medical attention to determine the cause. While many instances of rectal bleeding are due to benign conditions, it’s impossible to know the severity without a proper medical evaluation.

Here’s why rectal bleeding can be serious:

• Colorectal Cancer: It is one of the biggest causes of rectal bleeding. The first signs of colorectal cancer are often only rectal bleeding, which means fast diagnosis is very important for proper treatment.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract, leading to significant rectal bleeding, often accompanied by abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.
• Diverticulosis/Diverticulitis: The colon can develop small pouches called diverticula. Bleeding from the rectum can result if these pouches (diverticula) bleed (diverticulosis) or become inflamed and infected (diverticulitis).
• Angiodysplasia: It includes weak blood vessels in the colon that sometimes leak blood, creating brief episodes of bleeding.
• Polyps: They are raised areas in the lining of the colon or rectum. Although most of them are harmless, some will eventually become cancerous and may also cause bleeding.
• Anemia: Chronic or significant blood loss from rectal bleeding, even from less serious causes like hemorrhoids, can lead to anemia, a condition where the body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells. Some main signs of anaemia are feeling tired, weak, lightheaded, and out of breath.
• Acute Hemorrhage: Sometimes, rectal bleeding may be severe and quick which resulting in a big loss of blood. This may be a medical emergency that can result in a drop in blood pressure, shock and needs fast intervention.
• Misdiagnosis Risk: Never use self-diagnosis to decide your health. A small case of haemorrhoids might be hiding a more severe problem that causes similar symptoms.

Conclusion

If you see rectal bleeding, it means your body needs attention and must not be ignored. Often, when bleeding occurs it is thought to be due to haemorrhoids or anal fissures; however, it may also be the first symptom of more serious diseases like colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease.

Blood colour and how much it is found can support a diagnosis, but only professional tests can give an accurate result. It is important to get a medical exam as soon as possible, so any serious problems can be recognised and treated early to improve your health and relax your mind.

Thus, if you notice rectal bleeding, it is very important to visit a doctor promptly.

Dr. Kailash Mishra
Director & Gastroenterologist Consultant
Prime Gastro Liver Clinic