Rectal bleeding
Rectal bleeding refers to the passage of blood from the anus. The severity can vary from a small amount of bright red blood with defecation to severe, continuous bleeding. Rectal bleeding is a symptom and not a disorder itself. It is usually related to a condition in the digestive system such as a hemorrhoid or an anal fissure.
Causes[edit | edit source]
Rectal bleeding can be caused by a variety of conditions and diseases such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, diverticular diseases, colitis, Crohn's disease, colon and rectum polyps, cancer, or gastrointestinal bleeding.
Hemorrhoids[edit | edit source]
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus that can be painful, itchy, and can sometimes bleed. Painless rectal bleeding with a bowel movement is a common symptom of hemorrhoids.
Anal Fissures[edit | edit source]
An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus, often caused by constipation. Rectal bleeding from an anal fissure is usually bright red.
Diverticular Disease[edit | edit source]
Diverticular disease can cause small, bulging pouches to form in the lining of the digestive system, usually in the lower part of the colon. Diverticulosis can cause rectal bleeding.
Colitis[edit | edit source]
Colitis is inflammation of the colon. Colitis can be part of a disease called inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and it can also be due to other causes.
Crohn's Disease[edit | edit source]
Crohn's disease is a type of IBD. It can cause rectal bleeding, along with many other symptoms.
Colon and Rectum Polyps[edit | edit source]
Colon and rectum polyps are growths in the inner lining of the colon and rectum. They can cause bleeding, but often there are no symptoms.
Cancer[edit | edit source]
Cancer of the colon or rectum can cause rectal bleeding. This is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Gastrointestinal Bleeding[edit | edit source]
Gastrointestinal bleeding can be a cause of rectal bleeding, but it is usually not visible with the naked eye.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of rectal bleeding depends on the cause and may involve an examination of the rectum and colon, blood tests, imaging tests, or a colonoscopy.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for rectal bleeding may include lifestyle changes, medication, or surgery, depending on the cause.
See Also[edit | edit source]
- Hemorrhoids
- Anal fissures
- Diverticular diseases
- Colitis
- Crohn's disease
- Colon and rectum polyps
- Cancer
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
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