What Causes Blood In Stool
Blood in the stool can be alarming for both adults and children. Seeing bright red blood in your stool may lead to concerns about serious conditions like a bleeding ulcer or cancer in the large intestine (colon). However, many causes of blood in stool are treatable.
In this article, we’ll explore the most common reasons for blood in the stool, including bacterial infections, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), colon cancer, and more.
Common Causes of Blood in Stool
1. Bacterial Infections or Inflammation
Bacterial infections are a frequent cause of blood in the stool. Some common bacteria that can lead to infections in the colon include:
- Salmonella
- Neisseria gonorrhoeae
- E. coli
- Campylobacter
- Clostridium difficile
These infections can cause colitis (inflammation of the large intestine), leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhoea (often bloody), and weight loss. One type of inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, involves inflammation of the large intestine lining. It can lead to blood and mucus in the stool, as well as other symptoms like loss of appetite and fatigue.
2. Bile Duct Obstruction
Obstructions in the bile duct can also cause blood in the stool. Some common causes of bile duct obstruction include:
- Stomach ulcers
- Gallbladder disease
- Bile duct cancer
Bile duct obstructions can cause pain, bleeding, and changes in stool colour, and in some cases, may indicate the presence of a more serious condition such as colon cancer.
3. Colon Cancer
Blood in your stool can be an early sign of colon cancer, the third most common cancer worldwide. Colon cancer can be challenging to detect because its symptoms often overlap with other digestive conditions, such as constipation, diarrhoea, or hard stools.
Symptoms of colon cancer may include:
- Pain in the lower abdomen
- A change in bowel habits (such as diarrhoea or blood in the stool)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Rectal bleeding
Colon cancer primarily affects those over the age of 50, and risk factors include family history, diet, lack of exercise, and smoking. Early detection is key to successful treatment, so it’s essential to consult a doctor if you experience persistent symptoms.
4. Stomach Ulcers
Stomach ulcers can cause bleeding in the digestive system, which may appear in the stool. These ulcers can develop due to factors such as bacterial infections (Helicobacter pylori), chronic irritation, or the use of certain medications.
While small ulcers may heal on their own, larger ones can cause significant bleeding and should be treated by a doctor.
5. Varices
Varices are swollen, twisted veins, often in the oesophagus or stomach, that can rupture and cause internal bleeding. This bleeding may lead to blood in the stool. Treatment for varices often includes medications such as Heparin or Warfarin and, in some cases, surgery.
6. Bowel Obstruction
Bowel obstructions can be caused by narrowing of the colon due to conditions such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, or colon tumours. Obstructions can lead to symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.
Oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can also contribute to digestive issues, including bloody stool. Any sudden changes in bowel habits, especially if accompanied by blood, should be investigated by a doctor.
7. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS is a chronic condition that affects the digestive system. While IBS itself doesn't cause blood in the stool, it can be linked to conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, which may result in bleeding. Symptoms of IBS include bloating, cramping, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain.
Managing IBS typically involves lifestyle changes and medications to alleviate symptoms.
When To See a Doctor
If you notice blood in your stool, it’s important to seek medical advice. Some signs that warrant immediate attention include:
- Persistent or severe abdominal pain
- Significant changes in bowel habits
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fever and chills
- Rectal bleeding
A simple test can be done by your doctor to check for blood in the stool (hematuria), and further tests may help diagnose the underlying cause. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications, especially when conditions like colon cancer are involved.
Conclusion
There are several possible causes of blood in the stool, ranging from infections to serious conditions like colon cancer. Most of these causes are treatable, especially when detected early. If you are concerned about blood in your stool, make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your symptoms and potential next steps.
FAQs
Q: What should I do if I notice blood in my stool?
A: Consult your doctor immediately. They will run tests to determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
Q: Can IBS cause blood in the stool?
A: IBS doesn’t directly cause blood in the stool, but it can be linked to conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, which may lead to bleeding.
