Rectal Bleeding

Rectal Bleeding is a common problem and a cause of great anxiety for many people. For most, it will occur during a bowel movement. Although mostly painless, sometimes bleeding can occur with pain. Sometimes it is bright red and sometimes it is dark and mixed with stool.

What causes rectal bleeding? For majority of patients, acute rectal bleeding is the result of trauma to the anorectum. Usually caused by a hard stool or diarrhea. The hemorrhoidal groups (remember you are born with them) get irritated, congested etc and start to bleed. Spicy food and excess alcohol intake can trigger these episodes as well. Bleeding is typically bright red, sometimes in a splattering pattern on the toilet or dripping into the toilet bowl. With hemorrhoidal bleeding (internal hemorrhoids in particular), bleeding is mostly painless. If bleeding is accompanied by severe pain (like a cutting sensation) during bowel movements, then an external hemorrhoid or anal fissure may be to blame.

Regardless of etiology, rectal bleeding is never ok to ignore. If bleeding persists, then it is important to see your physician to get examined properly.