Defecation with blood

Defecation with blood (hematochezia) refers to the presence of bright red blood during or after a bowel movement. This symptom can result from various conditions affecting the lower gastrointestinal tract and should be taken seriously. Common causes include:

• Hemorrhoids: Swollen veins in the rectum or anus that bleed during bowel movements.
• Anal fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus, often due to straining or passing hard stools.
• Diverticular disease: Small pouches in the colon wall that can become inflamed or bleed.
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis that cause inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract.
• Colorectal polyps or cancer: Growths in the colon or rectum that can bleed.
• Infections: Certain infections of the gastrointestinal tract.

This symptom often appears as streaks of blood on toilet paper, in the stool, or in the toilet bowl. The blood is usually bright red, indicating it originates from the lower part of the gastrointestinal tract. If you experience blood in your stool, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

Source | Author Doctor Nikas Samuolis, reviewed by Prof. Virginijus Šapoka | Vilnius University | Faculty of Medicine | Head of the Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Oncology