HomeAnswersInternal Medicineblood in stoolsI had light bleeding in my stool for about five days. Please help.

Is blood in stools a serious problem?

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Published At March 13, 2024
Reviewed AtMarch 13, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

About five weeks ago I experienced some light bleeding in my stool for about five days. I had a rectal exam and an external hemorrhoid was found. I did have a qFIT (quantitative faecal immunochemical test ) test done with levels slightly raised at 14. The doctor said he would not be overly worried. I had been struggling with chronic constipation for almost two years when I entered into perimenopause. I did have a colonoscopy a year ago and a CT scan of the pelvic area recently and everything was fine.

I was very constipated last week, and only passed a pellet of hard stools. I had a massive bowel movement a few days back which was very large and it had some bright red blood in it which the doctor put down to the fact I was badly constipated. After passing this large stool I had some loose stools with no blood there were some spots of blood in the stool. Is there anything to worry about? Please help.

Thank you.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern. Based on the information you provided, it is possible that the mild rectal bleeding you have experienced could be related to the hernia or constipation. However, since you have had a recent colonoscopy and CT (computed tomography) scan that did not reveal any significant findings, it is less likely that the bleeding is a sign of a more serious condition like colon cancer.

It is also important to note that light rectal bleeding, especially in the context of constipation, can be a common symptom and may not necessarily indicate a serious problem. However, if the bleeding persists or becomes more severe, it is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist, for further evaluation. In the meantime, it may be helpful to continue managing your constipation with lifestyle changes such as increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, and regular exercise. If you continue to experience constipation or other digestive issues, your healthcare provider may recommend additional treatments or medications to help manage your symptoms. One commonly prescribed stool softener is Docusate sodium. It works by increasing the amount of water in the stool, which makes it softer and easier to pass. Docusate sodium is typically taken once or twice a day, usually with a meal, and the dosage may vary depending on the individual's needs and the severity of their constipation. It is important to follow the dosage instructions carefully and to drink plenty of fluids while taking a stool softener to prevent dehydration. Your healthcare provider can provide more information about Docusate sodium or other stool softeners that may be appropriate for your specific situation.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.

Regards.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Vandana Andrews
Dr. Vandana Andrews

General Practitioner

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