Discover the potential causes of bleeding and pain from your buttocks. From hemorrhoids to lymphogranuloma venereum, get answers on what to do if you experience rectal bleeding.

Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Causes and Symptoms

Rectal bleeding, which refers to bleeding from the rectum or anus, can be a concerning but relatively common occurrence. There are various potential causes, ranging from minor issues like hemorrhoids to more serious conditions like sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the common reasons behind rectal bleeding and provide insights on when to seek medical attention.

Common Causes of Rectal Bleeding

Rectal bleeding can have several underlying causes. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Hemorrhoids: Swollen veins in the rectum or anus that can cause bleeding, especially during bowel movements.
• Anal fissures: Small tears in the anus that can bleed, particularly after passing hard stools.
• Genital warts: Growths in the anal or rectal area that may bleed.
• Herpes: Viral infections that can cause ulcers and bleeding in the anal region.
• Painful bowel movements: Straining during bowel movements can lead to bleeding.
• Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV): A sexually transmitted bacterial infection that can cause swelling, redness, and bloody discharge from the anus.

Understanding Lymphogranuloma Venereum (LGV)

Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection caused by a specific type of chlamydia bacteria. It is more commonly found in men, and individuals living with HIV appear to have a higher risk of developing LGV. When tested for chlamydia, the test would be positive if someone has LGV, but a specific test would be required to confirm the LGV diagnosis.

LGV can affect the lymphatic system, leading to swelling and redness in the groin area. It can also cause drainage through the skin from the lymph nodes in the groin. If the infection affects the lymph nodes around the anus, it may result in bloody discharge from the buttocks.

Treating Rectal Bleeding

The treatment for rectal bleeding depends on the underlying cause. For conditions like hemorrhoids or anal fissures, over-the-counter remedies or lifestyle changes may be sufficient. However, for more serious conditions like LGV, antibiotic treatment is necessary. It’s important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience rectal bleeding, it’s important to seek medical attention, even if the bleeding is mild. Rectal bleeding can be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition, and it’s best to have it evaluated by a healthcare provider. Some signs that warrant immediate medical care include:

• Severe or persistent bleeding
• Bleeding accompanied by pain, swelling, or other concerning symptoms
• Bleeding that occurs despite the use of over-the-counter remedies

Remember, healthcare providers are accustomed to discussing and treating issues related to the rectum and anus. Don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if you have any concerns about rectal bleeding or other anal health issues.

Maintaining Anal Health

Maintaining good anal health is essential to prevent and manage issues like rectal bleeding. This includes practicing good hygiene, avoiding excessive straining during bowel movements, and being gentle with the anal area during sexual activity. If you engage in anal sex, using proper lubrication and taking time to relax and prepare can help prevent injuries and bleeding.

Conclusion

Rectal bleeding can have a range of underlying causes, from minor issues like hemorrhoids to more serious conditions like sexually transmitted infections. If you experience rectal bleeding, it’s important to seek medical attention to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment. Remember, healthcare providers are equipped to address these types of concerns, and it’s important to prioritize your anal health and seek help when needed.

Q&A: What causes bleeding & pain from your butt?

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Sexual health

Pierre-Cédric Crouch, PhD, ANP-BC answers our burning questions about butt pain. Here’s what to do if you notice pain, swelling or blood.

By Douchie

July 19, 2018   3 Minute Read

Maybe you’ve had this happen before: You wipe your butt and notice red streaks on the toilet paper. Or you wipe up after bottoming and you see blood on the towel. What’s going on?

Bleeding and pain can be symptoms of something minor like hemorrhoids to something more serious like lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV). To learn more about what to do if you experience bleeding from your butt, I asked San Francisco AIDS Foundation director of nursing Pierre-Cédric Crouch, PhD, ANP-BC, ACRN some “burning” questions I had.

Q: Thanks for answering my questions, Pierre! What are some reasons a person might bleed from their butt?

Pierre: You can bleed for a lot of different reasons. It could be something as simple as hemorrhoids or an anal fissure (get the details on anal fissures). But other things can make you bleed too: genital warts, ulcers, herpes, even having a painful bowel movement. You can also get bloody discharge from lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV).

Q: I’ve never heard of LGV before. Tell me more!

Pierre: LGV is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection that is caused by a type of chlamydia bacteria. It’s more common in men than women, and people who are living with HIV seem to be more likely to get it. When you get tested for chlamydia, your test would be positive if you have LGV but your provider would have to order a special test to see if it’s LGV. You don’t need to test specifically for LGV if you aren’t having any symptoms.

Because the infection affects the lymphatic system, it can cause swelling and redness in the groin area and drainage through the skin from the lymph nodes in the groin. It can also affect the lymph nodes around your butt if you have anal sex, and you might experience bloody discharge from your butt.

Q: Yikes! Sounds awful. Can LGV be treated?

Pierre: Absolutely. We treat LGV with antibiotics. If you have symptoms, the treatment lasts for three weeks (which is longer than we treat other types of chlamydia).

Q: You mentioned hemorrhoids potentially causing bleeding. Besides looking unpleasant, are hemorrhoids a health concern?

Pierre: Hemorrhoids are swollen veins that happen inside the rectum or on the anus. Straining when you poop can cause them, as can anal sex. Sometimes they are not serious and go away on their own. But sometimes they don’t go away—in those cases, you can get them treated.

I know some healthcare providers take the position that if your butt functions, it’s fine. They think ‘who cares what your butt looks like if you’re able to use it?’ But that view doesn’t support the health and happiness of people who bottom. Having a pretty butt is important!

Q: I love hearing about pretty butts! But for now, let’s move on to other possible causes of pain and bleeding. What about anal sex? Can people experience pain and bleeding from anal sex?

Pierre: Yes—anal sex can be another cause of pain and bleeding. No matter what you do if you bottom, if your partner is really rough, it’s going to hurt. Or if you haven’t bottomed in a long time, and you don’t take enough time to loosen yourself up, you can tear or strain a muscle. And that can cause bleeding.

Q: When should people seek help for pain or bleeding?

Pierre: If you have painful rectal bleeding, talk to your healthcare provider! I think people may delay seeking care because they are embarrassed or don’t want to talk about their butt. You have to remember that healthcare providers are used to hearing about this kind of stuff. Nothing is going to shock us. We’re here to help you feel and be healthy.

Douchie brings butt health & happiness out of the closet so you can care for your butt in the way it deserves. Get info about everything from douching to fissures with this series on all things anal. Visit sfaf.org/butthealth.

About the author

• Anal health

• Sexual health

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What Is Rectal Bleeding? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

By Ashley WelchMedically Reviewed by Grant Chu, MD

Reviewed: October 20, 2022

Medically Reviewed

Rectal bleeding, which is bleeding from the rectum or anus, is a scary but surprisingly common phenomenon.

Rectal bleeding is usually assumed to refer to bleeding from your rectum, which makes up the last few inches of your large intestine. Bleeding from higher in the intestinal tract, from the stomach, duodenum, or other parts of the small intestine, may also pass through the large intestine and appear to come from the rectum, notes MedlinePlus.

Common Questions & Answers

What are the symptoms of rectal bleeding?

Serious cases of rectal bleeding may involve abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, constipation, and unintentional weight loss. The blood can show up in stool or mucus in stool, or you may see it on underwear, on toilet paper, or in toilet water.

What are common causes of rectal bleeding?

Rectal bleeding is most often caused by hemorrhoids and anal fissures. Diverticulitis, a condition in which tiny bulges appear on the colon wall, and colitis, which is the inflammation of the lining of the colon, may also be causes.

How serious is rectal bleeding?

Rectal bleeding is a scary but common phenomenon. Typical causes like hemorrhoids or anal fissures aren’t life threatening, but in some cases, rectal bleeding can be a sign of colon cancer or, more rarely, anal cancer.

Is rectal bleeding bright red?

Blood from rectal bleeding ranges in color from bright red to maroon to black or tar-colored.

When should you worry about rectal bleeding?

Light rectal bleeding caused by constipation or hemorrhoids rarely needs medical attention. If the bleeding doesn’t stop after a week, check with your doctor. Bleeding due to colorectal cancer may occur in small amounts over time, so also check with your doctor if you notice this pattern.

Signs and Symptoms of Rectal Bleeding

Blood from rectal bleeding ranges in color from bright red to maroon to black or tar colored. Blood can be on or in the stool, be combined with mucus in the stool, or appear on your clothes and underwear, on toilet paper, or in the toilet water.

Symptoms that commonly occur with serious rectal bleeding include:

• Abdominal pain
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Unintentional weight loss

Causes and Risk Factors of Rectal Bleeding

The most common causes of rectal bleeding are diverticulosis, hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and colitis, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Diverticulosis is the most frequent cause of rectal bleeding. It is the presence of tiny bulges, called diverticula, in the colon wall. Diverticula are common and typically do not cause problems, but they can sometimes protrude through the walls of the bowels, leading to bleeding or infections.

Often called piles, hemorrhoids are swollen veins that appear at the bottom of the large intestine and outside the anus. They may be caused by excessive straining, such as while making a bowel movement, sitting on the toilet too long, or in women, pregnancy and giving birth. People who have persistent hemorrhoids are often constipated, are overweight or obese, or eat a very low-fiber diet.

Hemorrhoids can be itchy, painful, and annoying, but they are rarely serious and often go away on their own. In certain cases, treatment may be needed.

Anal fissures, another cause of rectal bleeding, are tiny tears in the anus and anal canal commonly caused by straining with hard stools.

Colitis is the inflammation of the lining of the tissues of the colon. This inflammation can lead to rectal bleeding. Ischemic colitis occurs when blood flow to the colon is reduced, typically as a result of narrowed or blocked arteries. With infectious colitis, the swelling of the colon is caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites.

Less common causes of rectal bleeding include intestinal polyps, proctitis, colon cancer, inflammatory diseases of the bowel, or rapid bleeding from the stomach or upper GI tract.

Intestinal polyps are masses of tissue that protrude from the bowel wall, sometimes causing minor bleeding. Proctitis is an inflammation of the lining of the rectum. If you have proctitis, you may feel rectal pain and the continuous sensation of having to make a bowel movement.

Colorectal cancer is one of the most serious causes of rectal bleeding. Anal cancer, which is less common than colorectal cancer, can also cause rectal bleeding.

People with an inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, may also experience rectal bleeding and related symptoms, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, ulcers, and a higher risk for colorectal cancers.

How Is Rectal Bleeding Diagnosed?

When you see a doctor for rectal bleeding, you’ll be asked a series of questions to help identify the cause. These can include when the rectal bleeding began, any foods you ate prior to the onset of symptoms, if you were constipated, and if you were straining during your bowel movement.

Your doctor will also perform a medical exam and take your medical history.

Tests that may help determine the cause of rectal bleeding include:

• Colonoscopy, in which a long, flexible tube with a tiny camera on its tip is inserted into the rectum. This allows your doctor to view the inside of the entire colon and look for any abnormalities, notes the Mayo Clinic.
• Sigmoidoscopy, in which a healthcare provider uses a sigmoidoscope, a flexible tube with a light and camera, to view the lower part of your colon and rectum. This test can help diagnose bowel disorders and cancer, per the Cleveland Clinic.
• Fecal occult blood test, which is a lab test to detect hidden, or occult, blood in stool. The test can be done in a few ways, either by the patient collecting stool samples and returning them to their doctor or a lab or by using a flushable pad or tissue that changes color when blood is present, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Duration of Rectal Bleeding

How long rectal bleeding lasts will vary based on the individual and condition causing it.

Rectal bleeding from hemorrhoids can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes with bowel movements. Bleeding may also occur occasionally between bowel movements. Talk to your doctor if you have rectal bleeding or if you have hemorrhoids that don’t clear up after a week, notes the Mayo Clinic.

Anal fissures typically heal within a couple of weeks, according to the National Health Service in Great Britain.

Rectal bleeding associated with polyps or colorectal cancer may occur in small amounts over time until a doctor identifies the cause and treats it.

Treatment and Medication Options for Rectal Bleeding

If you are experiencing rectal bleeding, the first thing to do is try to identify the cause. The cause will determine any treatment you may seek.

For example, losing weight, consuming more fiber-rich foods, and taking over-the-counter treatments are usually effective at managing the symptoms of hemorrhoids, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Anal fissures can usually be managed with treatment for constipation and the use of moistened wipes, which soothe the area around the anus. Anal fissures rarely require medical treatment or surgery, notes the Mayo Clinic.

More serious causes of rectal bleeding, such as bowel disease or cancer, may require more advanced treatment. People living with Crohn’s disease, for instance, may be prescribed medications like corticosteroids or immunotherapy. Those with cancer may require surgery to remove tumors, per the Cleveland Clinic.

Prevention of Rectal Bleeding

The best way to prevent rectal bleeding is to prevent its chief causes.

To prevent hemorrhoids, it’s important to keep your stools soft so they can pass easily. To do this, drink plenty of fluids and eat a diet high in fiber. Go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge and avoid straining when passing stools. Also, limit your time sitting on the toilet.

Anal fissures can be prevented by avoiding irritating the rectum and wiping the area with soft tissues, a moistened cloth, or cotton pad. Don’t use rough or scented toilet paper.

People at an increased risk for colorectal cancer should undergo regular screenings, primarily colonoscopy. Colorectal cancer screenings can detect precancerous polyps in the colon or rectum so that they can be removed before they turn into cancer. Screenings can also identify colorectal cancer early, when treatment is more likely to be successful.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 90 percent of new cases of colorectal cancer occur in people over age 50. Therefore, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that adults age 45 to 75 be screened for colorectal cancer. How often you undergo screening is determined by your risk and should be discussed with your doctor. Adults age 76 to 85 should talk to their physician about whether they should continue to be screened, the CDC says.

Lifestyle changes can also help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, including quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular physical activity, and limiting red meat consumption and alcohol use, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS).

According to the 2020–2025 U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, if alcohol is consumed, it should be done in moderation, meaning up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.

Complications of Rectal Bleeding

Light rectal bleeding or spotting due to constipation or hemorrhoids in people under 40 rarely needs medical attention. However, if your rectal bleeding is continuous or heavy, it could lead to shock, a life-threatening condition in which the body is not getting enough blood flow. If not treated, this can result in organ damage. According to the Mayo Clinic, you should seek medical attention immediately if you are experiencing rectal bleeding and any of the signs of shock, including:

• Faintness
• Nausea
• Rapid, shallow breathing
• Blurred vision
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Confusion
• Clammy, pale skin
• Low urine output

Untreated polyps in the colon or rectum that cause rectal bleeding can lead to colorectal cancer.

Research and Statistics: How Many People Have Rectal Bleeding?

While no statistics exist stating exactly how many people are affected by rectal bleeding at any given time, research suggests that it’s a common enough occurrence.

A study published in the British Journal of General Practice found that the consultation rate for rectal bleeding in patients over age 34 was 15 per 1,000 per year.

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, hemorrhoids, a major cause of rectal bleeding, affect about 1 in 20 adults in the United States. About half of adults over age 50 have hemorrhoids.

About 1 in 10 people are affected by anal fissures at some point in their lives.

According to the ACS, excluding skin cancers, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosis in the United States. In 2020, the ACS estimates that there were 104,610 new cases of colon cancer and 43,340 new cases of rectal cancer.

Black Americans and Rectal Bleeding

While there are no statistics on rectal bleeding in different ethnic groups, colorectal cancer disproportionately affects the Black American community. According to the ACS, Black Americans are 20 percent more likely to receive a colorectal cancer diagnosis and are 40 percent more likely to die from it than people in other groups.

While the reasons for this disparity are complex, they reflect racial differences in risk factors, access to healthcare, and socioeconomic status. Black Americans have higher rates of obesity, with non-Hispanic Black Americans about 1. 3 times more likely to be obese compared with non-Hispanic white Americans, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health reports.

Black Americans also experience greater obstacles to cancer prevention, detection, treatment, and survival. Such obstacles include lower paying jobs, lack of health insurance, lack of access to healthy and affordable foods, and low-quality housing and education.

Related Conditions and Causes of Rectal Bleeding

Colorectal cancer is one of the most serious causes of rectal bleeding. It is the third leading cause of cancer-related death in men and women, although death rates are dropping, thanks to earlier detection.

When cancer develops in a polyp, it can grow into the wall of the colon or rectum over time. From there, the cancer can grow into blood vessels or lymph nodes and can spread to nearby lymph nodes or different parts of the body. Screening for polyps is key to preventing colorectal cancer or catching it early so it can be treated, notes the ACS.

Anal cancer is an uncommon type of cancer occurring in the anal canal that can cause rectal bleeding. According to the ACS, there were an estimated 8,590 new cases of anal cancer in 2020 and 1,350 deaths.

 Most people with anal cancer are treated with chemotherapy and radiation. This type of cancer rarely spreads to different parts of the body. As such, many patients with anal cancer can be cured, notes the Mayo Clinic.

Resources We Love

Favorite Organizations for Essential Information on Rectal Bleeding

American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Founded nearly eight decades ago, this professional organization of physicians is dedicated to advancing patient care and digestive health. Get all the info you need on common causes of rectal bleeding, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, polyps, and colon and anal cancer.

American Cancer Society

ACS is a nationwide organization dedicated to advocating for people with cancer and eliminating cancer as a major health problem. It is the ultimate source of information if you or a loved one is worried about colorectal cancer, has recently been diagnosed, is going through treatment for colorectal cancer, or is trying to stay well after treatment.

Cleveland Clinic

The Cleveland Clinic offers an array of information on possible causes of rectal bleeding, care and treatment, and when to call a doctor.

Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking

• Gastrointestinal Bleeding. MedlinePlus. May 4, 2016.
• Rectal Bleeding. Cleveland Clinic. August 13, 2020.
• Colonoscopy. Mayo Clinic. May 18, 2022.
• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy. Cleveland Clinic. October 19, 2020.
• Fecal Occult Blood Test. Mayo Clinic. May 4, 2022.
• Hemorrhoids: Symptoms and Causes. Mayo Clinic. May 12, 2021.
• Anal Fissure. National Health Service. November 9, 2021.
• Hemorrhoids: Diagnosis and Treatment. Mayo Clinic. May 12, 2021.
• Anal Fissure: Diagnosis and Treatment. Mayo Clinic. November 17, 2020.
• Anal Fissures. Cleveland Clinic. February 22, 2019.
• What Should I Know About Screening? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. February 17, 2022.
• Colorectal Cancer Risk Factors. American Cancer Society. June 29, 2020.
• Dietary Guidelines for Alcohol. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. April 19, 2022.
• Rectal Bleeding. Mayo Clinic. January 6, 2022.
• Ellis BG, Thompson MR, Factors Identifying Higher Risk Rectal Bleeding in General Practice. British Journal of General Practice. December 2005.
• Definition and Facts of Hemorrhoids. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. October 2016.
• Key Statistics for Colorectal Cancer. American Cancer Society. October 31, 2022.
• Colorectal Cancer Rates Higher in African Americans, Rising in Younger People. American Cancer Society. September 3, 2020.
• Obesity and African Americans. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health. March 26, 2020.
• What Is Colorectal Cancer? American Cancer Society. June 29, 2020.
• Key Statistics for Anal Cancer. American Cancer Society. January 12, 2022.
• Anal Cancer Symptoms and Causes. Mayo Clinic. August 12, 2021.

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Epithelial coccygeal tract (coccyx cyst, coccyx fistula): symptoms, diagnosis, treatment of epithelial coccygeal tract (coccyx cyst, coccyx fistula)

The epithelial coccygeal passage is a congenital defect in the form of a narrow channel in the soft tissues under the skin of the sacrococcygeal region. The move is located in the fold between the buttocks, and comes to the surface of the skin with one or more small holes (primary holes). Inside the passage are sweat and sebaceous glands, hair follicles, connective tissue fibers. The products of their vital activity come out through the primary openings in the form of secretions, and infection can penetrate into the tissues through the same openings.

In the absence of inflammation, the epithelial coccygeal passage does not give practically any symptoms. An exception may be slight discharge from the course, moisturizing the skin between the buttocks, itching.

Inflammation of the epithelial coccygeal tract

When the openings of the epithelial coccygeal passage are blocked or mechanically traumatized, inflammation occurs, in which fatty tissue is involved. An abscess is formed – an abscess, which often breaks through the skin on its own. Despite the fact that after the breakthrough, the symptoms smooth out and the state of health improves, independent breakthroughs are dangerous by the formation of a fistula – a narrow channel through which pus from the inflammation zone will come out (the outer opening of the purulent fistula is formed in the zone of the abscess breakthrough). A fistula with an inflamed epithelial coccygeal passage is not associated with the rectum!

Causes of development

There are the following versions, according to which the development of pathology occurs.

• In the first case, we are talking about disorders that occur even at the stage of human embryonic development. The failure manifests itself in the appearance of thin channels that resemble enlarged pores. The canals are lined from the inside with epithelial tissue and hair; sweat and sebaceous glands emerge on their surface.
• Another reason for the development of an epithelial coccygeal tract, or pilonidal cyst, is the hormonal characteristics of the human body, which can simultaneously manifest as excessive hair growth.
• A correlation between the presence of the disease and the physiological characteristics of the patient’s body was also noticed. In particular, we are talking about strongly pronounced buttocks and an overly deep crease between them.

Symptoms of an inflamed epithelial coccygeal passage:

• Pain of different nature and intensity in the buttocks, coccyx
• Tumor-like mass above the anus
• Redness, induration and swelling of the tissues between the buttocks
• Purulent discharge in the area of ​​inflammation

With incorrect or untimely treatment, the focus of inflammation in the epithelial coccygeal passage persists, and the disease becomes chronic. During the period of remission, there are practically no symptoms, sometimes pain or discomfort in the coccyx area may be felt, slight discharge from the openings of the passage appears. At the same time, the focus of inflammation inside the tissues remains, and the disease can worsen at any time. For a chronic inflammatory process in the epithelial coccygeal course, the appearance of infiltrates, purulent fistulas, recurrent abscesses is characteristic.

Treatment

Treatment of the epithelial coccygeal passage is surgical. Conservative treatment does not remove the main source of inflammation. If surgical treatment is not carried out in time, the entire area near the sacrum and coccyx is involved in the inflammatory process, purulent fistulas can open not only in the sacrum, but also on the skin of the perineum. In such cases, surgery will still be required, but its volume can become much larger.

It is important to understand that opening an abscess alone can slightly reduce symptoms, and the patient will feel relief. However, it is impossible to talk about the cure of pathology in this case. In most cases, a pilonidal cyst develops into chronic inflammation. Only a radical operation allows you to completely eliminate the disease and consists in the complete removal of the epithelial passage and all its branches. The duration of the operation, depending on its volume, is 20-30 minutes. Adequate anesthetic support helps to avoid discomfort during the intervention. The period of disability after surgical treatment is minimized.

Proctologist’s consultation

Pathology in the form of an epithelial coccygeal passage occurs only in men. The frequency of diagnosing this disease is quite high – 1 case per 300-400 born boys. At a younger age, a pilonidal cyst may not cause inconvenience and does not manifest itself in any way. However, with the onset of puberty and older, it is difficult to ignore the disease.

At the appointment, the proctologist diagnoses an uncomplicated epithelial-coccygeal course during a visual examination, the symptom confirming the pathology is the holes in the fold between the buttocks. If, along with this, local inflammation is detected and fistulous passages are noticeable, the proctologist can diagnose a complicated pilonidal cyst. Also during the consultation, the proctologist conducts a digital examination aimed at excluding other pathologies. In particular, it is necessary to make sure that there are no changes in the region of the morganian crypts – anatomical depressions in the terminal segment of the rectum, as well as in the region of the coccygeal and sacral vertebrae.

Blood from the anus: bleeding from the anus during defecation

The appearance of blood from the anus during or after a bowel movement can alarm people, regardless of how and when it is found – on toilet paper or after a coprogram (fecal analysis). Expert proctologists unquestioningly agree in one opinion – this symptom informs about the pathology in the anal canal and / or above the located sections of the colon.

Depending on the severity of the patient’s pathology, the appearance of blood in the anus may be accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen, vomiting, manifestations of general weakness or nausea, an upset digestive system, anemia, and weight loss.

Causes of blood in the stool

Rectal bleeding indicates bleeding in the rectum or colon. The color of blood can be either scarlet or red. Doctors also pay attention to the color of the stool itself, as blood can stain it black.

Let’s highlight the main factors for the appearance of blood from the anus:

Anal fissures

An anal fissure is a mechanical damage to the anoderm (skin of the anal canal) in the form of small cuts or tears, accompanied by painful stabbing sensations and discomfort after defecation.

Polyps or cancer

Benign growths on the wall of the anal canal, called polyps, which, as they grow, can cause bleeding and degenerate into rectal cancer.

Colitis

Inflammatory processes in the colon, affecting its mucous membrane.

diverticular disease

Diverticula are herniated protrusions on the wall of the large intestine in the form of small sacs. When an infection occurs under the influence of viruses or bacteria, they can become inflamed and bleed, and also cause quite a strong pain syndrome.

Angiodysplasia of the intestine

The condition of fragility of the venous vessels, leading to bleeding.

peptic ulcer

Inflammatory processes on the wall of the stomach, small intestine or duodenum, which are caused by the pathogenic activity of the bacterium Helicobacter pylori. Inflammation can also occur on the basis of long-term drug therapy with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Diagnosis by a proctologist when blood appears from the anus

If a person has a roof in the anus, it is necessary to sign up for a consultation with a proctologist with an examination. Visual inspection of the anal canal is carried out in the form of special instrumental techniques, including:

1. Anoscopy

Painless research technique, which is assigned to the majority of patients applying for an appointment. Allows you to identify many proctological diseases at an early stage, as well as their exact localization in the rectum and anal canal. For example: anal fissures, condylomas and papillomas of the anal canal, benign or malignant neoplasms, inflammatory processes of the rectum, fistulas, hypertrophied papillae of the rectal walls, polyps, etc.

Before the anoscopy procedure, the patient must prepare, namely, make a cleansing enema of 1.5-2 liters, or special microclysters. If desired, you can use laxatives, which should be taken on the eve of the appointment (in the evening when the doctor visits in the morning).

The doctor examines the anal canal using a special device – an anoscope – a tube with a light guide at the end. Next, biological material (mucus) is taken from the surface of the anal canal, followed by sending it to the laboratory for histological analysis. The duration of the procedure is on average about 10-15 minutes.

2. Videorectoromanoscopy

A more effective procedure for endoscopic examination of the anal canal to a depth of 8 to 20 centimeters, from the rectum to the sigmoid colon. Thanks to this technique, the attending proctologist can accurately assess the condition of the intestine, as well as identify scars, polyps, inflamed hemorrhoids and other neoplasms. Subject to removal.

For the study, a video rectoscope is used – an endoscopic device with the ability to record a video examination in real time. The patient also has the opportunity to see a picture of the state of the anal canal on the monitor.

The procedure has several contraindications for carrying out, including: acute anal fissure, acute purulent inflammatory processes in the study area. If the patient wishes, local anesthesia is used for greater comfort during the examination. The duration of the procedure is no more than 15-20 minutes. As soon as possible, the patient receives the results of the study, as well as a recording of the procedure from a video rectoromanoscope.

3. Digital examination of the rectum

A mandatory research method, as a result of which the attending physician decides on the subsequent procedures – sigmoidoscopy and anoscopy.

Thanks to a digital rectal examination, the proctologist receives information about the current state of the muscular system of the anal canal, detects bleeding, and other pathological conditions:

1. anal fissures

2. Enlargement of hemorrhoids,

3. Cicatricial pathologies of the walls of the rectum,

4. Neoplasms of various etiologies

5. Foreign bodies.

In addition, a digital examination helps to study the state of the internal organs of the reproductive system of women and the prostate gland (prostate) in men.

The biggest advantage of this technique is the ability to assess the condition of the upper semicircle of the rectal wall, ascending above the anus, and which is not available for any of the above types of proctological examination.

The procedure is not performed if a narrowing of the anus is diagnosed, or with a pronounced pain syndrome.

During a digital examination, the proctologist inserts the index finger of the right hand into the lumen of the anal canal, gently probing its walls, from the sphincter. Depending on the collected history, the specialist assesses the condition of the mucous membrane of the walls, pain on palpation, tone, elasticity and degree of extensibility of the rectum.

What diseases does blood from the anus indicate?

Here is a list of the most likely pathologies, a symptom of which may be blood during a bowel movement:

1. Hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoids are a pathological enlargement of the veins located in the anal canal. The process is accompanied by a feeling of heaviness, the presence of a foreign body in the anal canal, pain and bleeding while going to the toilet.

2. Anal fissure

The second most common pathological condition of the walls of the anal canal, giving the patient such inconvenience as acute pain, bleeding and frequent. The causes of anal fissure can be anal sex, frequent constipation, lifting heavy loads, diarrhea, various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as strong attempts during childbirth.

Fissures of the rectum are acute and chronic. In 80% of cases, with conservative treatment, an acute fissure heals. But with a negative result of therapy after 6 weeks, it passes into the chronic stage, as a result of which scar tissue appears on the edges of the crack.

3. Genital warts in the anal canal

Benign, small-sized formations that occur due to the penetration and reproduction of the human papillomavirus (HPV) in the body and a decrease in immunity. May cause bleeding or blood in the stool.

4. Ulcerative colitis

Chronic pathology of the large intestine, causing damage to the mucous membrane and causing diarrhea with blood impurities.

5. Diverticulitis

A disease that occurs due to the weakening of the smooth muscles of the intestinal wall and the formation of cavities in it. Over time, feces can accumulate in these cavities, causing bleeding and frequent inflammation.

In addition to these diseases, blood in the anus may indicate pathologies such as Crohn’s disease or colon cancer. In order to detect any proctological disease as early as possible and further effective treatment, Med City proctologists advise to undergo preventive examinations at least once a year. This will save you from a longer and more painful treatment of diseases in the later stages.

Who to contact if there is blood in the stool

Feces with blood impurities is an occasion for an urgent visit to the proctologist. If a patient complains about the presence of rectal bleeding to a family doctor, the latter also refers him to a gastroenterologist. If you experience additional symptoms in the form of vomiting with blood impurities, feeling severe pain in the abdomen, fever, you should immediately call an ambulance.

What methods of treatment of proctological diseases are used to stop the symptom of blood in the anus?

The clinic “Med City” uses the most effective for our time in the capital of the methods of treatment of diseases of the anal canal.

Alloying with latex rings

Method for painless removal of inflamed hemorrhoids at stages 1, 2 or 3. The procedure does not require a stay in the hospital of a medical institution, and lasts about 2 minutes.

Radiowave surgery for proctological diseases

A widely used technique for excision of external hemorrhoids of different stages, condylomas and papillomas, anal fissures. The radio wave method is absolutely harmless to the patient, since there is no tissue traumatization. 90% effective against the above pathologies.

Removal of hemorrhoids with a laser

A bloodless method for the quick and safe removal of external and internal hemorrhoids with an Italian-made DEKA laser. There are several types of laser treatment:

– laser hemorrhoidoplasty – using an infrared beam, the doctor acts on the node, necrotizing it (due to the cessation of blood supply in the area of ​​application of the technique). This does not damage the anatomical structure of adjacent tissues.

Benefits of laser treatment in proctology

Bloodless procedures – no bleeding incisions (as in traditional surgery)

1. No seams

2. Safety for adjacent tissues

3. Low likelihood of recurrence.

If the patient notices the symptom of blood from the anus, but ignores visits to the doctor, this can lead to aggravation of the disease causing it and a deterioration in the quality of life.