Blood in Stool: Causes Beyond Hemorrhoids
Blood in stool is a common symptom associated with hemorrhoids, but numerous other medical conditions can also lead to this occurrence, including anal fissures, intestinal polyps, rectal prolapse, perianal abscesses, and rectal cancer. When blood in stool persists despite the absence of hemorrhoids, prompt medical attention is advised to ascertain the underlying cause and prevent potential severe consequences.
1. Anal Fissures
Anal fissures refer to tears or splits in the skin of the anal canal, most commonly occurring during or after bowel movements. They manifest as drops of blood or blood on toilet paper, accompanied by severe anal pain. Mild anal fissures may heal spontaneously, while severe cases may require surgical intervention.
2. Intestinal Polyps
Intestinal polyps are projections from the surface of the intestinal mucosa into the lumen, most frequently found in the colon. They are mostly benign tumors, characterized by painless blood in stool and abdominal discomfort. Some intestinal polyps may undergo malignant transformation. The coexistence of intestinal polyps and blood in stool, independent of hemorrhoids, is a significant indication.
3. Rectal Prolapse
Rectal prolapse involves the downward displacement of the mucosal layer or the entire rectal wall, categorized into incomplete and complete prolapse. Symptoms include varying degrees of anal incontinence, constipation, bleeding, and abdominal bloating, which can manifest as blood in stool.
4. Perianal Abscess
Perianal abscesses represent acute purulent infections in the soft tissues surrounding the anal canal or the interstitial spaces around them, resulting in the formation of abscesses. When perianal abscesses coexist with blood in stool, unrelated to hemorrhoids, it signifies a more complex medical condition.
5. Rectal Cancer
Rectal cancer is a prevalent malignancy of the digestive tract, characterized by symptoms such as blood in stool, diarrhea, and localized pain. The presence of blood in stool, even in the absence of hemorrhoids, warrants further investigation for rectal cancer.
Additional Consideration
Apart from the aforementioned causes, consumption of foods rich in red pigments, like red-fleshed dragon fruit, can also discolor stools red. However, upon cessation of such foods, the blood-like appearance in stool should subside.
