What Does Blood in the Stool Indicate?
When someone mentions blood in the stool, the first thought that comes to mind is cancer. However, that is not always the case. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), "Bloody stools often indicate an injury or disorder in the digestive tract." In fact, just because you see blood in your stool, does not necessarily indicate that it is from your intestines. It can be from your stomach or even your mouth, according to NIH. However, it is important that you get it checked out by your physician immediately to determine the cause.
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Color
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The color of your stool is important to tracking where the blood is coming from. For example, a black stool represents blood that originates from the upper part of the digestive tract. Any type of red color stool usually indicates that the blood is coming from the lower part of the digestive tract.
Location
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Some reasons for blood in the upper digestive tract can result from stomach ulcers, esophagus rips, gastritis or excessively large blood vessel. Reasons for blood in the lower digestive tract can result from a hemorrhoid, colon cancer or polyps, infection or an anal fissure, among others.
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Considerations
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If your stool has these colors, it does not always mean blood is involved. Foods or drugs can change the color of your stool. Some things that can make your stool black are excess iron, antacids like Mylanta and even blueberries. Some things that may make your stool red are tomatoes, beets and red candy.
Significance
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Don't take black or red colored stool lightly. Call your doctor immediately if you discover black or bloody stools. Your doctor's office will most likely set up an appointment over the phone. However, your doctor may want to see you that day. Your doctor will be able to perform tests to confirm where the blood is coming from.
Tests
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Chemical tests can be performed to see if it indicates blood or not. If it's not blood, you can rest assured that it was something you ate. However, if it is established that blood exists in your stool, more tests will need to be done. A test called a colonoscopy can be done. In this test, a doctor will scope your large intestines with a laparoscope to see if there is any blood in your intestines. Other tests, such as X-rays or endoscopy can also be performed.
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Resources
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