Rectal Bleeding Specialist

What is rectal bleeding?

Rectal bleeding indicates that there’s a problem somewhere else in your body. It typically points to an issue like hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or inflammatory bowel disease. While it can be alarming to see blood in the toilet, there’s no reason to panic.

The color of the blood can give you insights into the underlying cause of the bleeding and how severe it is. For example, bright red blood indicates it’s coming from your rectum or colon. Dark red blood can mean that your small bowel is bleeding. While black, tarlike blood points to a bleeding stomach or ulcer.

If you regularly experience rectal bleeding and it happens along with other symptoms, like diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, or abdominal pain, contact North Texas Gastroenterology Associates PLLC right away.

What are the symptoms of rectal bleeding?

The symptoms of rectal bleeding can vary depending on what’s causing it. Telltale signs include:

• Rectal pain or pressure
• Seeing bright red blood in your stool
• Having a bowel movement with a tarlike appearance
• Feeling light-headed or dizzy
• Seeing blood on your toilet paper or underwear

Some people with rectal bleeding also have bowel movements that are red, maroon, or black.

Is rectal bleeding serious?

Rectal bleeding is a common problem that almost everyone experiences at least once. That said, you must monitor your symptoms. If your bleeding continues for more than a day or two, becomes heavy, or interferes with your daily routine, seek professional medical help right away.

What causes rectal bleeding?

North Texas Gastroenterology Associates PLLC treats rectal bleeding caused by various conditions, including:

• Hemorrhoids
• Anal abscesses
• Anal fissures
• Diverticulitis
• Ulcers
• Large polyps

You’re also more likely to experience rectal bleeding if you have inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

How is rectal bleeding diagnosed?

To diagnose rectal bleeding, North Texas Gastroenterology Associates PLLC completes a physical exam, reviews your health history, and asks a series of questions, including When did the bleeding start? Do you have hemorrhoids? Do you experience pain with rectal bleeding?

If necessary, your doctor will order additional tests, like a colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or a fecal occult blood test. After gathering the required information, your doctor can determine the underlying cause of your rectal bleeding.

How is rectal bleeding treated?

The treatment for rectal bleeding will depend on what’s causing it and how severe your symptoms are.

If your bleeding is due to hemorrhoids or an anal fissure, your doctor could recommend banding or a wait-and-watch approach. If your bleeding is caused by colon cancer or another kind of tumor, your doctor will likely recommend surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation. The goal of treatment is to limit pain or discomfort and improve your quality of life.

To get treatment for rectal bleeding, request a consultation at North Texas Gastroenterology Associates PLLC. Call the nearest office to speak with a team member, or book online today.