Blood in Stool

It’s definitely concerning when you notice blood in your stool. It could be a sign of colon cancer, among other diseases. You will need to be evaluated to look for the cause. At Southend Gastroenterology Associates in Louisville, Kentucky, Sankay Jain, MD, has extensive experience with dealing with this problem and provides you the treatment you need. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today.

When should I be concerned about blood in stool?

When you notice blood in your stool, it indicates bleeding anywhere within your gastrointestinal tract, including your stomach, small intestine, colon (large intestine), rectum, and anus. You may notice blood on toilet paper when you wipe, blood in the bowl, or black (tarry) stool. 

How blood shows up in your stool gives you a clue as to the underlying cause of the symptom. Dark, tar-like blood in your stool suggests bleeding in the upper area of your gastrointestinal tract. Brighter red blood likely comes from the lower portion, including your rectum. 

You should always be concerned about seeing blood in your stool, especially if other symptoms accompany it, including:

• Abdominal pain
• Pain while defecating
• Diarrhea
• Changes in stool pattern, including constipation
• Straining
• Nausea and vomiting
• Lump near the anus

When you make your appointment, report these symptoms to Dr. Jain. They can help him pinpoint the reason for blood in your stool. 

What causes blood in stool?

Possible causes that need treatment include the following:

• Ulcers
• Diverticulosis
• Hemorrhoids (piles)
• Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
• Colorectal cancer
• Other conditions

Blood in stool may be a sign of a more serious condition, so you should always get it checked out right away. 

How do you diagnose blood in stool?

Dr. Jain reviews your medical history and performs a comprehensive physical examination. He may ask for blood and stool samples. Depending on your symptoms, he may order an upper endoscopy or a colonoscopy to evaluate your gastrointestinal tract. 

These procedures evaluate tissue inside your intestinal tract using a thin tube and a small camera. Dr. Jain can biopsy any abnormal tissue during these tests.

How do you treat bloody stool?

Treatment for bloody stool depends on the cause. Hemorrhoids, for example, often resolve on their own. Persistent or severe hemorrhoids benefit from minimally-invasive procedures, like rubber band ligation or laser surgery.

If you receive an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) diagnosis, Dr. Jain helps you manage your condition with diet, medications, and regular screenings. Colon cancer patients may require surgery, chemotherapy and radiation treatment, depending upon the stage. 

If you notice blood in your stool, don’t delay making an appointment at Southend Gastroenterology Associates. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today.