Rectal bleeding: If you ever see blood when you use the toilet, it’s easy to panic or just ignore it, hoping it will go away. Many people feel shy or scared to talk about it. But rectal bleeding, even a little, is not something you should ignore. Chances are that it’s harmless, but you don’t want to miss something serious. The only way to know for sure is to get it checked by a doctor.
Let’s talk about why rectal bleeding happens and what it could mean for your health.
Also Read | What to expect from non-surgical and surgical piles treatments
What causes rectal bleeding?
There are many reasons for blood in the stool or on toilet paper. Some are minor, while others need medical care.
One common reason is piles (also called haemorrhoids). These are swollen blood vessels in or around the anus. They often cause bright red blood, especially after passing hard stool. You might feel pain, itching, or a lump near the anus.
Another cause is anal fissures. These are small cuts in the skin around the anus, usually caused by constipation or straining. Fissures also cause bright red bleeding and can be painful.
But sometimes, bleeding comes from inside the body. Conditions like ulcers, polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, or even colon cancer can cause rectal bleeding. In these cases, the blood may be dark red or mixed with stool. You may also have stomach pain, weight loss, or changes in your toilet habits.
When should you worry about rectal bleeding?
If bleeding happens more than once, if it’s heavy, or if it comes with pain, weakness, or weight loss, don’t wait. Go to a doctor. Bleeding is your body’s way of saying something isn’t right. Even if you think it’s just piles, you should get it checked. Sometimes what looks like piles can be something else. Only a doctor can tell the difference after a proper examination.
Why is ignoring rectal bleeding risky?
Some people feel embarrassed or think it will go away on its own. But ignoring rectal bleeding can delay the diagnosis of serious diseases. For example, colon cancer often starts with small signs like bleeding. If caught early, it can be treated successfully. But if you wait too long, it becomes harder to treat.
Regular bleeding, no matter how small, can lead to low haemoglobin or anaemia. This can make you feel tired and weak all the time.
What will the doctor do about rectal bleeding?
A doctor will first ask questions about your symptoms and do a physical exam. They may suggest tests like a stool test, a blood test, or a colonoscopy to find the cause. These tests are safe and help doctors see what’s going on inside.
Treatment depends on the cause. It could be as simple as eating more fibre and drinking water, using creams, or taking medicines. In some cases, minor surgery might be needed.
Also Read | What causes anal itching? Infections and other possibilities explained
Health should always come first. Rectal bleeding may not always be serious, but it’s not normal. If you see blood, don’t ignore it. Talk to a doctor. The earlier you find the cause, the easier it is to fix the problem. There’s nothing shameful about taking care of your health. The more you know, the better choices you can make for yourself and your family.