Finding blood in your stool can be frightening. Your mind might immediately jump to the worst-case scenario. While many causes are benign, like hemorrhoids or anal fissures, you should never ignore rectal bleeding. Some symptoms indicate you need a prompt medical evaluation.
At Midwest Hemorrhoid Treatment Center in Town and Country, MO, we understand how stressful this can be. Dr. Betsy F. Clemens specializes in evaluating blood in stool to give you clear answers and relief.
Here are five warning signs that mean it is time to see a specialist.
The color of the blood provides a major clue about where the bleeding starts. Bright red blood usually comes from the lower colon or rectum. However, black or tarry stools typically indicate bleeding higher up in your digestive tract, such as the stomach.
The color changes happen because stomach acid and digestive enzymes break down the blood as it travels through the digestive system.
We perform thorough evaluations to determine the exact source of your symptoms. If you notice dark or black stools, we can help guide you to the right diagnostic steps.
If you see blood and also experience ongoing diarrhea, it is time to seek professional care. This combination can point to inflammatory conditions or infections that require targeted treatment.
A 2022 study in the Journal of General Internal Medicine analyzed symptoms before a colonoscopy. The study showed that diarrhea alongside bleeding slightly raised the risk of serious conditions compared to bleeding alone.
At our Town and Country office, we look at your complete symptom picture to ensure nothing is missed.
Feeling a new lump or mass in your stomach area alongside rectal bleeding is a significant warning sign. This combination suggests that a deeper issue may be affecting your bowel function.
The Journal of General Internal Medicine study noted a higher risk of serious disease when bleeding occurred with diarrhea and an abdominal mass. We provide compassionate, expert care to thoroughly investigate these symptoms and provide accurate answers.
These symptoms may indicate hemodynamic instability, meaning your body is struggling with rapid blood loss. Never try to guess how much blood you have lost just by looking at the toilet water.
According to the American Family Physician clinical guidelines, experiencing a racing heart, severe dizziness, or fainting means you need immediate emergency care.
If you have these systemic signs, seek emergency medical attention right away. For stable, non-emergency bleeding, we offer prompt outpatient appointments in our comfortable clinic.
Daily aspirin, ibuprofen, and prescription blood thinners can slow blood clotting time, making even minor bleeding worse.
The American Family Physician guidelines emphasize that doctors must carefully review and sometimes adjust these medications during a bleeding episode. Never stop taking your prescribed medications without medical supervision. We will work closely with you to safely manage your treatments and protect your health.
Whether your symptoms point to a common issue like hemorrhoids or require further testing, you do not have to navigate this anxiety alone.
Dr. Clemens and our dedicated team are here to provide the specialized, non-surgical care you deserve. To find the cause of your symptoms and start your path to relief, schedule an appointment with us today.
