Finding bright red blood in your stool can be a shocking and terrifying experience. Blood in your stool can be a sign of a health condition, so it is very important to see a doctor for advice.

Considerations

If the blood in your stool is bright red, it usually means that the bleeding is coming from the lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The lower GI tract includes the large bowel, the rectum, and the anus. Bright red blood can also be a sign of massive bleeding in the stomach.

Causes

Bleeding in the lower GI tract is often caused by hemorrhoids or diverticulitis. Other causes range from anal fissures and intestinal infections to colon cancer. Only a doctor can find the source of bleeding.

When to See a Doctor

If you find any blood in your stool, you should contact a doctor immediately. Even if you think that the bleeding is minor or caused by hemorrhoids, it is crucial to tell your doctor as soon as possible. Bleeding may be a sign of a serious medical condition.

Clinical Tests

During your office visit, your doctor may perform a colonoscopy, take X rays of the abdomen, test samples of your blood, or take a stool sample. If the bleeding is serious, you may be admitted to the hospital for monitoring.

Prevention

Eating a high-fiber diet that includes lots of vegetables will help digestion and lower your chances of constipation, hemorrhoids, colon cancer, and diverticulosis. Avoid smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and stress as well. After age 50, the American Cancer Society recommends yearly fecal-occult blood testing, and a colonoscopy every ten years.

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