Seeing blood in the rectum is often a frightening thing. To determine whether it is piles or something more serious, consider these reasons:
1. Piles
This is a condition in which the blood vessels in the rectum swell. When people with constipation strain and defecate, these veins can burst and bleed. Piles usually cause painless but bright red blood.
2. Anal Fissure
A fissure is a small tear in the skin of the anus. This is caused by severe constipation. If you experience unbearable pain during bowel movements and a small amount of blood, it is likely to be a fissure.
3. Colorectal Cancer
This is the most serious cause. If you have cancer in the colon or rectum, you may have blood in the stool. If the blood is black or dark red, it indicates a problem with the lining of the intestines. Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite may also be seen.
4. IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease)
This is a condition in which there is chronic inflammation and ulcers in the intestines (for example, Ulcerative Colitis). Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and blood mixed with mucus in the stool.
5. Anal infections
Some bacterial infections or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can cause anal ulcers and bleeding.
When should you see a doctor?
If you cannot stop bleeding.
If your stool is black.
If you are accompanied by severe abdominal pain or dizziness.
If you have a sudden change in your bowel habits.
An important point: If you see blood in your stool, do not self-treat it and see a doctor for an examination (for example, Proctoscopy or Colonoscopy) as this can help detect diseases such as cancer at an early stage.