Navigation
[TITLE]

[MESSAGE]

[BUTTONS]

Popular questions...

Content

Is rectal bleeding serious?

Complications of rectal bleeding are: anemia caused by continued loss of blood. Symptoms to watch out for are pale skin, breathlessness, weakness, dizziness and fatigue. Shock - if you lose a large volume of blood, your body may go into shock if untreated. This can be potentially fatal but can be managed with the prompt medical care. Colon cancer is not a complication of rectal bleeding, but rectal bleeding may be due to bowel cancer, so if you have rectal bleeding, it is important to see your doctor to rule out colon cancer.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is rectal bleeding?

Rectal bleeding occurs when you see blood in the toilet pan or on the toilet paper after wiping your anus. Bright red blood usually means you are bleeding from somewhere close to your anus, such as from your rectum or anus itself. Darker, stickier blood means you …

What are the symptoms of rectal bleeding?

Signs and symptoms of rectal bleeding can include: fresh (bright red) blood appearing in the toilet pan, on toilet paper or underwear; darker, stickier blood that may be plum-colored or tarry in appearance; profuse bleeding with or without pain, …

What causes rectal bleeding?

It is worth noting that while taking medications such as iron supplements or eating lots of beetroot can change the color of your stool, it is recommended you visit your doctor if you notice red, plum or black-colored stools. Other causes of rectal bleeding can …

Who gets rectal bleeding?

Risk factors for rectal bleeding include: older age, constipation, anticoagulant drugs such as aspirin or warfarin, and a family history of conditions such as hemorrhoids, inflammatory bowel disease, polyps or bowel cancer.

How is rectal bleeding diagnosed?

The method of diagnosis will depend on your age and symptoms and may include all or a few of the following tests: digital rectal examination (DRE) your doctor will insert a gloved, lubricated finger into your anus to check your rectum for lumps or …

Can rectal bleeding be cured?

Some cases or rectal bleeding are easier to treat than others. Many cases of hemorrhoids can be resolved with simple lifestyle changes and home treatments. Surgery is typically performed on polyps that are found at the time of colonoscopy. These can generally …

Will rectal bleeding clear up on its own?

The outcome for rectal bleeding depends on your diagnosis and individual circumstances. If you have hemorrhoids you may have ongoing but non life-threatening bleeding. Your doctor will be able to advise you on any self-help treatments such as …

Is rectal bleeding contagious?

The only type of rectal bleeding that is contagious is when the cause is gastroenteritis. This is a highly contagious condition as a result of infections with bacteria, viruses or parasites.

Are there different types of rectal bleeding?

Bright red blood usually means you are bleeding from somewhere close to your anus, such as from your rectum or anus itself. Darker, stickier blood means you are bleeding from higher up in your digestive tract such as in the stomach or small …

Related topics

Diseases & conditions

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus or rectum, which can hang down outside the anus. They are often caused by constipation and straining, obesity, heavy lifting or pregnancy. They may be uncomfortable but are not usually serious.…
Diseases & conditions

Anal fissure

An anal fissure is a small tear or open sore in the lining of the rectum. It can cause pain and bleeding when passing a bowel movement, particularly if the stool is large or dry.…
Diseases & conditions

Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is where abnormal pouches form in the wall of the large intestines and become infected. It presents as abdominal pain, fever and unwellness. Treatment is important to prevent further complications.…
Diseases & conditions

Colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is the name for cancers that arise in the large intestine or rectum. Also known as colon cancer or colorectal cancer, bowel cancer can interfere with bowel function and spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver and lungs.…
Diseases & conditions

Crohn’s disease

Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel condition that mainly affects the intestines. The main symptoms include diarrhoea, abdominal cramping and tiredness. Although there is no known cure, Crohn’s disease can be managed with medications, dietary measures and, in some cases, surgery.…
Diseases & conditions

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a common digestive complaint that involves frequent, urgent, and watery bowel movements. Although most cases clear up at home without much treatment, be aware that diarrhea can lead to severe dehydration, especially in children and the elderly.…

About this article

Author: Karen McCloskey BHSc
First answered: 22 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 14 May 2019
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Votes: 1386 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Hemorrhoids

×

Content goes in here.