Blood in Stool: Now What?
If you have found blood in your stool, you are justifiably concerned. Learn how the internal medicine doctors at Maryland based practice, Bowie Internal, can help.
How to Identify Blood in Stool
When examining your stool, you will often be able to identify blood as a bright red or maroon in color.
Blood can also present as black, sticky and give off a strong odor.
In some cases, blood may not be visible without proper medical equipment.
Causes for Blood in Stool
Finding blood in your stool may not always be a dire situation.
In many cases, it is a harmless side effect of a minor gastrointestinal abnormality.
However, if you have any conditions such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or even serious conditions such as cancer, blood in the stool can indicate that it is time to seek medical help.
Some of the most common causes of rectal bleeding include the following:
· Hemorrhoids
· Anal Fissures
· Ulcerative Colitis
· Rectal Trauma
· Colon Cancer
· Rectal Prolapse
Understanding the Bleeding
Your doctor should be able to identify the location of the bleeding based on the color of the blood presenting in your stool.
Additionally, for cases where blood isn’t presenting to the naked eye, your doctor can perform fecal occult blood testing in the lab to identify the issue.
Blood in Stool | Bowie Internal Medicine
If you are concerned about your colon health or notice that you have blood in your stool, it is always best to seek the help of a medical professional.
Bowie Internal Medicine is a group of four physicians and two certified nurse practitioners who are available to answer all of your questions and evaluate a treatment plan personalized for you.
Call Bowie Internal Medicine today to schedule your consultation (301)262-8188 or .