Rectal bleeding
I am bleeding from the rectum.
Bleeding from the rectum (enteroragia, haematochesia) is a common problem that almost the entire population suffers from at some point in their life. It can involve different quantities of bleeding, including tiny red traces of blood on toilet paper or in stools, drops of red or dark blood on clothes or in the toilet bowl, small discharges of blood, or even extensive bleeding with a stream of blood.
What is the cause
The causes are a very diverse group of problems including rupture of the rectum, eczema, rectal prolapses or haemorrhoids. The cause can, however, be a serious disease such as a tumor which may be benign or a malignant cancer of the rectum or colon (bowels).
How the problem is diagnosed
Typically, the patient may have discovered blood in the toilet bowl after defecation or the presence of bright red blood on toilet paper. Sometimes there can be blood on their underwear, and more rarely, there is leaking of blood from the anus. Sometimes the patient notices the presence of mucus and blood on the stool.
How the problem is treated
Whenever a person notices the presence of blood in their stool or on toilet paper, it is necessary to find a proctologist who can determine the best procedure for treatment, based upon the nature of the particular condition.