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I noticed blood in stool. Is this due to piles or cancer?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I hope you are doing well.

Earlier today, during a bowel movement, I noticed the presence of bright red blood in my stool. When I wiped the anal area with tissue, there was a noticeable amount of fresh blood, and a few portions of the stool also appeared red. After cleaning, I was able to complete the bowel movement without further bleeding, and the remaining stool was normal, dark brown in color.

I have had external piles for a few years, and currently, there is some mild swelling around the anal area. However, I am not experiencing any pain in the abdomen, lower abdomen, or around the anus.

I would appreciate your guidance on the following concerns:

  • Could this bleeding be due to piles?
  • Should I be concerned about more serious conditions, such as colon or stomach cancer?
  • Is this type of bleeding likely to recur?
  • What would be the appropriate course of treatment or next steps?

Please advise.

Thank you for your time and assistance.
Answered by Dr. Noushif. M

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Based on the information provided, your symptoms are most consistent with bleeding due to piles. This is unlikely to be related to cancer, so there is no immediate cause for concern. However, for complete reassurance and to rule out other possibilities, it would be advisable to consider a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy.

Bleeding of this nature typically occurs when there is increased pressure on the pile mass, often due to hard stools or straining during bowel movements.

Therefore, the primary focus should be on preventing these triggers. It is important to avoid constipation by maintaining a high-fiber diet, staying well-hydrated, and using medications if necessary. Consistent dietary management, along with appropriate treatment when required, can significantly help in managing your condition.

For further evaluation and personalized care, I recommend consulting a gastroenterologist.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your clarification.

I have a couple of additional questions. About two weeks ago, I experienced loose motions due to a suspected food infection and consulted a general physician. During that visit, I also had my piles examined. The doctor mentioned that the piles were present but currently inactive.

I would like to seek your reassurance on whether my recent episode of bleeding could still be attributed to piles, and to confirm that it is unlikely to be related to cancer.

I would appreciate your guidance on this.

Thank you once again for your support.

Answered by Dr. Noushif. M

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

The most reliable way to confirm the cause of your symptoms is through a colonoscopy, which I would strongly recommend.

For further evaluation and detailed guidance, it would be best to consult a gastroenterologist.

Please help.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi Doctor,

Thank you for your continued guidance.

Following the initial episode of bleeding during a bowel movement more than a week ago, I have not experienced any further similar incidents. However, I have recently noticed a change in my stool color. Most of the time, it appears dark brown. For instance, during a morning bowel movement, the stool may start as light brown and gradually become dark brown toward the end. In my most recent bowel movement, the stool was entirely dark brown.

I am not experiencing any pain in the upper or lower abdomen, nor do I have vomiting.

I would appreciate your advice on the following:

  • Is this variation in stool color something to be concerned about?
  • Could this indicate any underlying serious condition?
  • Are there any home remedies or lifestyle changes I should follow to address this?

Please advise.

Thank you again for your support.

Answered by Dr. Noushif. M

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

The variation in stool color you have described is generally not considered pathological and can occur commonly. There is typically no cause for concern unless the stool appears black and tarry or contains visible blood.

Based on your current symptoms, there does not appear to be any indication of a serious underlying condition. There are no specific home remedies required at this stage.

However, the only definitive way to rule out any significant illness is through a colonoscopy.

In the meantime, it is advisable to maintain a healthy diet and stay adequately hydrated.

For further evaluation and personalized advice, please consult a gastroenterologist.

I hope this clarifies your concern.

Please feel free to reach out if you have any further questions.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your guidance.

Could you please explain the procedure for a colonoscopy? I would also like to understand whether it is painful.

Additionally, I would appreciate your guidance on how to prepare for the procedure and the type of diet I should follow before undergoing it.

Please help.

Thank you in advance for your assistance.

Answered by Dr. Noushif. M

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Consult a local surgeon or gastroenterologist who performs this procedure.

Preparation typically involves following a liquid diet for two to three days and completing a bowel cleanse the day before your colonoscopy.

The procedure is performed under sedation and is generally not painful.

For further information or personalized advice, please consult a gastroenterologist.

I hope this clarifies your concern.

Please feel free to reach out if you have any further questions.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your guidance.

I hope you are doing well.

I recently consulted a doctor due to symptoms of stomach bloating and irregular bowel movements that I had been experiencing for about two weeks. An endoscopy was performed, and I was diagnosed with erythematous gastritis. I have also been prescribed medication, and I have attached the endoscopy report along with the prescription for your review.

I would appreciate your guidance on the following:

  • Is erythematous gastritis a common condition?
  • What could be the possible causes in my case?
  • Is this condition curable?
  • Could it lead to any serious or life-threatening complications in the future?
  • Are the prescribed medications appropriate for this condition?

Please advise.

Thank you for your time and assistance.

Answered by Dr. Noushif. M

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

This appears to be a case of simple gastritis, likely resulting from increased stomach acidity. It may have been triggered by certain dietary factors.

There is no need for concern, as this is a very common condition. It is generally curable, although it may recur if the triggering factors persist or recur. Importantly, it is not considered life-threatening.

The medications prescribed are appropriate for this condition, and I would recommend continuing them as advised.

For any further questions or ongoing concerns, it would be best to consult a gastroenterologist.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your reply.

I have a few additional questions. Aside from the erythematous gastritis, can you confirm whether the rest of my stomach, as well as my upper and lower intestines, appear normal?

  • Could you let me know if the prescribed medications have any possible side effects? I have experienced mild lower abdominal pain and am unsure if it is related to the medication or another cause.
  • How long does erythematous gastritis typically take to heal?
  • Are there any foods or eating habits I should avoid to prevent aggravating the condition?

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Noushif. M

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

A complete intestinal examination was not performed during your endoscopy, as your current symptoms do not warrant it at this time. If symptoms continue, further evaluation may be needed, such as a contrast CT scan of the abdomen to assess the small intestine or a colonoscopy to examine the large intestine.

Currently, your medications are not linked to significant side effects. Erythematous gastritis usually resolves within two to three weeks.

For now, please avoid very spicy, masala-heavy, fatty, or oily foods. Also, try to eat regularly and avoid letting your stomach stay empty for too long, as this can make your symptoms worse.

If you have more concerns or your symptoms continue, please see a medical gastroenterologist.

I hope this clarifies your concern.

Please feel free to reach out if you have any further questions.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your reply.

After our phone consultation last week and starting the medication you prescribed, my stomach bloating has gone away. However, I now have off-and-on discomfort in my lower abdomen, close to the pelvic area and bladder, and sometimes feel the urge to urinate. These symptoms usually happen between 4:00 and 5:00 PM after lunch.

Is this pain possibly part of the stomach ulcer healing process? Also, even though I have been taking the medication for almost two weeks, I still have about four bowel movements each day.

I would appreciate your advice.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Noushif. M

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

The pain does not look like it is related to an ulcer. Also, the stool frequency does not look worrisome. However, I suggest you observe for another couple of weeks. If the symptoms worsen, I suggest you consider getting an abdominal scan.

I hope this has helped you.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your reply.

I had an ultrasound scan today as a precaution, and the results were normal. After drinking tender coconut water this morning, my pain went away.

Could you let me know if my lower abdominal and pelvic discomfort needs any more attention? I have attached the scan report for you to review.

I would appreciate your advice and guidance.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Noushif. M

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

The scan report appears normal (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity). Please monitor the symptoms closely over the next month. If symptoms persist or new ones develop, further evaluation will be necessary. Otherwise, no additional action is required.

Please let me know if you have any further questions.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your reply.

Since starting Pantop 40 each morning, my stomach bloating has significantly decreased, and I no longer experience lower abdominal or pelvic pain.

However, over the past week, I have developed a new symptom that occurs only at lunchtime. After eating, I experience mild, sharp pain in my upper abdomen below the ribs, along with gas, cramping, and a mild burning sensation near my belly button. These symptoms last one to two hours and do not occur with other meals or snacks.

My stools remain normal, and I have not experienced blood in my stool, fever, or vomiting. Should I be concerned about these new symptoms, and do you recommend continuing the current medication? I have attached my previous prescription for your review.

Kindly advise your opinion.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Noushif. M

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Yes, please keep taking your current medications for another two weeks. After that, pay attention to whether any ingredients in your lunch might be causing these symptoms. Right now, there is no need to worry.

I hope this has helped you.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your reply.

My one-month medication course will finish by the end of this month. I missed Pantop 40 mg for four days because I ran out of tablets. Today, I experienced gastric symptoms again, including persistent stomach discomfort and four bowel movements.

I have a few questions:

  1. Why have these gastric symptoms reoccurred after stopping the medication?
  2. I am concerned that the gastritis has not fully resolved despite completing the medication.
  3. Will another endoscopy be required to evaluate this further?
  4. Should I continue the tablets for a few more days?

For reference, I have not consumed outside food or alcohol since last month.

I would appreciate your guidance and recommendations.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Noushif. M

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

If your symptoms continue, I recommend repeating the endoscopy. It is also important to make changes to your diet and follow general health advice. If your symptoms are mild or only happen occasionally, you can usually ignore them.

I hope this information is helpful.

Thank you.

Answered byDr. Noushif. M

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At June 28, 2018
Reviewed AtApril 6, 2026

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

Dr. Noushif. M
Dr. Noushif. M

Surgical Gastroenterology

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