When indicated, I also recommend my patients undergo a colonoscopy. I may also perform a digital rectal examination to check for abnormalities in the lower rectum and anal canal. What is the exam like for rectal bleeding?Įvery exam includes a detailed review of your symptoms to help determine when the problem started and the frequency and severity of your rectal bleeding.ĭepending on the type of symptoms you’re having, you may require an examination that includes a visual assessment of your anal region to look for fissures, external hemorrhoids, or other obvious causes for the bleeding. Severe hemorrhoids that are resistant to other treatment methods may require injection of a chemical solution into the vein to destroy it (sclerotherapy) or surgical removal (hemorrhoidectomy). This causes the hemorrhoid to shrink and fall off within a few days. I might also recommend warm baths and use of a cream or suppository that contains hydrocortisone to help reduce inflammation.įor persistently symptomatic hemorrhoids, rubber band ligation is a common outpatient procedure that involves placing specially-designed rubber bands around the base of an internal hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply. We start with addressing the underlying causes of your hemorrhoids, such as constipation. The most effective treatment depends on the nature and size of your hemorrhoids. Bouts of diarrhea, long periods of sitting or standing, and a family history may also increase your risk of developing hemorrhoids. They typically develop because of chronic constipation or straining during bowel movements and may be related to pregnancy, heavy lifting, or obesity. They can occur within your rectum as internal hemorrhoids or involve the anus as external hemorrhoids. These swollen veins are like the varicose veins found in your legs. Hemorrhoids are the most common cause of rectal bleeding. What is the most common cause of rectal bleeding?
This dedicated expert is board-certified in both gastroenterology and hepatology and is pleased to share some of his medical insight regarding the causes and concerns of rectal bleeding. Bharat Pothuri is a well-respected physician in Cypress, Texas, who specializes in diseases of the digestive system, which includes conditions responsible for rectal bleeding. Regardless of the cause of your rectal bleeding, prompt treatment is often the most effective solution for relieving your symptoms and resolving the underlying condition.ĭr. Sometimes, though, rectal bleeding can signal a serious issue such as an ulcer, a perianal abscess, or colorectal cancer. This might include a change in diet or medication to help resolve constipation or other common causes of rectal bleeding.
More often than not, however, the bleeding is due to conditions that resolve with relatively simple treatment measures. Understandably, noticing a bloody smear on your toilet paper or red-tinged water in the bowl after a bowel movement can trigger alarm bells.