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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 abnormalities. This is a very common, quick and often painless procedure. Proctoscopy - a common procedure which involves insertion of a thin, hollow lubricated instrument (proctoscope) into your rectum. The instrument is lit and allows your rectum to be examined closely. Colonoscopy - involves inserting a thin, flexible, lit tube (endoscope) into the rectum to examine your colon and lower bowels. You will be given a mild sedative to help you relax during the procedure and often will be asked not to eat for 12 hours before the test. The endoscope can take video, photos and tissues samples, providing your doctor with a highly detailed view of your intestines. Computer tomography (CT) or nuclear scans may be performed to visualize abdominal structures and/or the source of bleeding more clearly.

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.

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 …

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 …

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About this article

Author: Karen McCloskey BHSc
First answered: 22 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Votes: 994 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Hemorrhoids

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