Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

Overview

What are colon polyps?

A colon polyp is a growth on the inner lining of the colon (large intestine) or rectum. A polyp can have a variety of shapes and be flat, slightly raised (called sessile) or on a stalk (called pedunculated). There are different microscopic types of polyps (which require a microscope to determine), and the adenomas or sessile serrated polyps can eventually grow over time and become cancer. Undergoing colorectal cancer screening and removal of polyps can decrease the risk of developing colorectal cancer.

Symptoms and Causes

What causes colon polyps and who gets them?

Polyps are found in about 30% of the adult population over the age of 45-50. Men and women of all ethnicities are at risk of colon polyps and colon cancer.

A polyp is the result of genetic changes in the cells of the colon lining that affect the normal cell life cycle. Many factors can increase the risk or rate of these changes. Factors are related to your diet, lifestyle, older age, gender and genetics or hereditary issues. Important lifestyle factors predisposing to colorectal polyps and cancer (making you more liable to get these conditions) include:

• Smoking.
• Excess alcohol ingestion (drinking too much alcohol).
• Not exercising.
• Being overweight.
• Eating processed foods and too much red meat (instead of a mostly plant-based food plan).

Other factors include:

What are the symptoms of colon polyps?

Most colon polyps and early, curable colorectal cancer do not have any symptoms, which is why screening is recommended. However, when symptoms do occur, they may include:

• Bleeding from the rectum (the last part of the digestive tract that enables stool to leave the body), which can be seen with the naked eye or detected microscopically by fecal blood test or a fecal blood test combined with a genetic stool test.
• Unexplained iron deficiency anemia or weight loss.
• Change in normal bowel movement pattern.
• Abdominal pain (rare).

The above symptoms should be evaluated to ensure that there are no polyps or colorectal cancer.

Diagnosis and Tests

How are colon polyps diagnosed?

A doctor can find colon polyps in several different ways, including:

• Colonoscopy: A procedure in which a long, thin, flexible tube is placed through the rectum and into the large intestine. The tube has a camera that shows images on a screen and allows polyps to be removed.
• Sigmoidoscopy: A thin, flexible tube is inserted through the rectum to examine the last third of the large intestine (sigmoid colon).
• Computerized tomography (CT) scan: A radiology test that uses radiation to create pictures of the large intestine.
• Stool tests: You provide the lab with a stool sample, which will be tested for blood or genetic changes suggestive of polyps and cancer. If the test is positive, a colonoscopy is needed.

If any of the last tests are abnormal, a colonoscopy should be done to check for polyps and remove them.

Management and Treatment

What happens if you have a colon polyp?

When a colon polyp is found, your doctor will remove it and test it in the laboratory to see what microscopic type it is. Your doctor will determine when you should have a repeat screening test based on the number, size and microscopic analysis of polyps, in addition to your other risk factors.

Prevention

Can colon polyps and colorectal cancer be prevented?

You may be able to reduce the risk of developing polyps if you:

• Avoid excess alcohol and do not smoke tobacco.
• Lose any extra weight to normalize your body mass index.
• Exercise—including at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity and 2 sessions of muscle strengthening per week.
• Eat at least 3-5 servings of fruits and vegetables a day.
• Avoid fatty and processed foods and red meat in excess.
• Low-dose aspirin every day has been shown to decrease colorectal polyps and cancer. Aspirin can have side effects. The use, risks and benefits of aspirin should be discussed with your doctor.

Rectal Bleeding (Blood in Stool) | What to do | Causes and Treatment

What is rectal bleeding?

The term rectal bleeding is used by doctors to mean any blood that is passed out of your bottom when you go to the toilet to pass stools (faeces). However, not all bleeding that is passed out actually comes from the back passage (rectum). The blood can come from anywhere in the gut. The more correct term is gastrointestinal tract bleeding, often abbreviated to GI bleeding. There are many causes of rectal bleeding (GI bleeding) which are discussed later.

What is the gut?

The gut (gastrointestinal tract) starts at the mouth and ends at the anus. When we eat or drink, the food and liquid travel down the gullet (oesophagus) into the stomach. The stomach starts to break up the food and then passes it into the small intestine.

The small intestine (sometimes called the small bowel) is several metres long and is where food is digested and absorbed. Undigested food, water and waste products are then passed into the large intestine (sometimes called the large bowel). The main part of the large intestine is called the colon, which is about 150 cm long. This is split into four sections: the ascending (on the right side of your tummy), transverse (across the top of your tummy), descending (on the left side of your tummy) and sigmoid colon (in your pelvis). Some water and salts are absorbed into the body from the colon. The colon leads into the back passage (rectum) which is about 15 cm long. The rectum stores stools (faeces) before they are passed out from the anus.

Types of rectal bleeding/GI tract bleeding

When you have GI bleeding, the things that a doctor needs to assess include the following:

How bad (severe) the bleeding is

Bleeding can range from a mild trickle to a massive life-threatening severe bleed (haemorrhage). In most cases the bleed is mild and intermittent. In this situation, any tests that need to be done can be done as an outpatient. There is no immediate risk to life with mild, intermittent GI bleeding. However, always report to a doctor if you have a large amount of bleeding, as a lot of blood loss needs urgent treatment.

Sometimes bleeding from a condition in the gut (GI tract) is so mild (like a slight trickle) that you do not notice any actual bleeding and it is not enough to change the colour of your stools (faeces). However, a test of your faeces can detect even small amounts of blood. This test may be done in various situations (described later).

Where the bleeding is coming from

Bleeding can come from anywhere in the GI tract. As a general rule:

• Bleeding from the anus or low down in the back passage (rectum) – the blood tends to be bright red and fresh. It may not be mixed in with faeces but instead you may notice blood after passing faeces, or streaks of blood covering faeces. For example, bleeding from an anal tear (fissure) or from haemorrhoids (described later).
• Bleeding from the colon – often the blood is mixed up with faeces. The blood may be a darker red. For example, bleeding from colitis, diverticular disease, or from a bowel tumour. However, sometimes, if the bleeding is brisk then you may still get bright red blood not mixed up too much with faeces. For example, if you have a sudden large bleed from a diverticulum (described later).
• Bleeding from the stomach or small intestine – the blood has far to travel along the gut before it is passed out. During the time it takes to do this the blood changes and becomes dark and mixed with faeces. This can make your faeces turn a black and tarry or plum colour – this is called melaena. For example, this may occur due to a bleeding stomach ulcer or a duodenal ulcer. Note: if you have melaena it is a medical emergency, as it usually indicates a lot of bleeding that is coming from the stomach or duodenum. You should tell a doctor immediately if you suspect that you have melaena.

The cause of the bleeding

A doctor may ask various questions to get an idea as to the main possible causes of the bleeding. So, for example, you may be asked about possible symptoms. You may be asked about:

• Whether you have any pain.
• If you have any pain, where it is and what type of pain it is.
• Any itching around your bottom.
• Any change in your bowels, such as diarrhoea or constipation.
• Any weight loss.
• Whether you have been feeling unusually tired.
• Any history in your family of bowel disease.
• Any medications you take, as some can increase the risk of GI bleeding.

The doctor is then likely to examine you. This may include examining your back passage (anus and rectum) by inserting a gloved finger into your anus. Sometimes they may use an instrument called a proctoscope to look a little way inside your back passage. Sometimes, a diagnosis can be made after this. For example, of an anal fissure or pile (haemorrhoid). However, further tests are commonly needed to clarify the cause. This is because the examining finger or the proctoscope can only go a short way up your GI tract. If no cause is found, the bleeding may be coming from higher up.

What are the causes of rectal bleeding/GI tract bleeding?

There are many possible causes. Below is a brief overview of the more common causes:

Piles

Piles (haemorrhoids) are swellings that can occur in the anus and lower back passage (lower rectum). There is a network of small blood vessels (veins) within the inside lining of the anus and lower rectum. These veins sometimes become wider and filled with more blood than usual. These swollen (engorged) veins and the overlying tissue may then form into one or more small swellings called haemorrhoids. Haemorrhoids are very common and many people develop one or more haemorrhoids at some stage. Small haemorrhoids are usually painless. The most common symptom is bleeding after going to the toilet. Larger haemorrhoids may cause a mucous discharge, some pain, irritation and itch. See the separate leaflet called Piles (Haemorrhoids) for details.

Anal fissure

An anal fissure is a small tear of the skin of the anus. Although the tear of an anal fissure is usually small (usually less than a centimetre), it can be very painful because the anus is very sensitive. Often an anal fissure will bleed a little. You may notice blood after you pass stools (faeces). The blood is usually bright red and stains the toilet tissue but soon stops. See the separate leaflet called Anal Fissure for details.

Diverticula

A diverticulum is a small pouch in the wall of the gut (intestines). Diverticula is the word used for more than one diverticulum. They can develop on any part of the gut but usually occur in the colon. Several diverticula may develop over time. A diverticulum may occasionally bleed and you may pass some blood via your anus. The bleeding is usually abrupt and painless. The bleeding is due to a burst blood vessel that can happen in the wall of a diverticulum and so the amount of blood loss can be heavy. Diverticula can cause other symptoms such as tummy pains and changes in your normal bowel habit. See the separate leaflet called Diverticula (Diverticulosis, Diverticular Disease, Diverticulitis) for details.

Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease is a condition which causes the gut to become inflamed. The disease flares up from time to time. Symptoms vary, depending on the part of the gut affected and how bad the condition is. Common symptoms include bloody diarrhoea, tummy (abdominal) pain and feeling unwell. See the separate leaflet called Crohn’s Disease for details.

Ulcerative colitis and other forms of colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a disease where inflammation develops in the colon and rectum. A common symptom when the disease flares up is diarrhoea mixed with blood. The blood comes from ulcers that develop on the lining of the inflamed gut. There are other rare causes of inflammation of the colon (colitis) or inflammation of the rectum (proctitis) that can cause rectal bleeding. See the separate leaflet called Ulcerative Colitis for details.

Polyps

A bowel polyp is a small growth that sometimes forms on the inside lining of the colon or rectum. Most develop in older people. Polyps are non-cancerous (benign) and usually cause no problems. However, sometimes a polyp bleeds and sometimes a polyp can turn cancerous. See the separate leaflet called Bowel Polyps (Colonic Polyps) for details.

Cancer

Cancer of the colon and rectum are common cancers in older people. They sometimes affect younger people. Rectal bleeding is one symptom that may occur. Bleeding is often not visible (occult – see later) and other symptoms are often present before visible bleeding occurs. For example, weight loss, tiredness due to blood loss (anaemia), diarrhoea or constipation. Cancers of other parts of the gut higher up from the colon sometimes cause rectal bleeding but these are uncommon. See the separate leaflet called Colon, Rectal and Bowel Cancer (Colorectal Cancer) for details.

Angiodysplasia

Angiodysplasia is a condition where you develop a number of enlarged blood vessels within the inner lining of the colon. Angiodysplasia most commonly develops in the ascending (right) colon, but they can develop anywhere in the colon. The cause is unknown but they occur most commonly in older people. Bleeding from an angiodysplasia is painless. The blood seen can range from bright red brisk bleeding, to dark blood mixed with faeces, to black- or plum-coloured faeces (melaena). An angiodysplasia may also cause non-visible (occult) blood loss (see below).

Abnormalities of the gut

In young children various abnormalities of the gut or the gut wall may cause rectal bleeding. Examples include:

• Volvulus – a twisting of the gut.
• Intussusception – one part of the gut is sucked into another, creating a blockage.
• Meckel’s diverticulum – an extra bulge or pouch in the small intestine, present from birth (congenital).
• Hirschsprung’s disease – a condition where a part of the lower bowel does not function as it should. The muscles of the bowel wall are unable to squeeze along the faeces as they should do.
• Abnormal blood vessel development.

See the separate leaflet called Rectal Bleeding in Children for more information.

Stomach and duodenal ulcers

An ulcer in the stomach or duodenum may bleed. This can cause melaena, where your faeces turn black- or plum-coloured as described earlier.

There are separate leaflets on both of these conditions, called Stomach Ulcer (Gastric Ulcer) and Duodenal Ulcer.

Some gut infections

These may cause bloody diarrhoea due to inflammation of the gut, caused by some infections.

See the separate leaflet called Gastroenteritis for more information.

There are various other rarer causes.

What should I do if I have rectal bleeding?

See a doctor. If the bleeding is heavy, or if you have black- or plum-coloured stools (faeces) – called melaena (described above), see a doctor immediately or call an ambulance. If you feel dizzy, collapse or feel generally unwell then consider calling an ambulance, as this might indicate a heavy bleed. However, often the bleeding is mild. In this situation, make an appointment with your doctor soon. Some people assume that their rectal bleeding is due to piles (haemorrhoids) and do not get it checked out. Haemorrhoids are perhaps the most common cause of rectal bleeding. However, you should not assume the bleeding is coming from a haemorrhoid unless you have been properly assessed by a doctor.

What tests might be advised?

It depends on the possible causes of the bleeding. This will be determined by a doctor talking to you (your history) and examining you. You will often have a blood test (for anaemia) and usually one of the following tests is suggested:

• Sigmoidoscopy.
• Colonoscopy.
• A virtual colonoscopy (CT colonography).

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a test where a doctor or nurse looks into your colon using a colonoscope. A colonoscope has fibre-optic channels that light up the inside of the colon. It is also possible to take a small sample (biopsy) using a colonoscope and sometimes to treat the cause of the rectal bleeding. See the separate leaflet called Colonoscopy for details.

What is a sigmoidoscopy?

A sigmoidoscopy is a test that allows a doctor or nurse to look inside the rectum and sigmoid colon. The sigmoid colon is the final portion of the bowel that is joined to the rectum. A sigmoidoscope is similar to a colonoscope but much shorter. A sigmoidoscopy is easier to do than a colonoscopy. See the separate leaflet called Sigmoidoscopy for details.

What is a virtual colonoscopy?

A virtual colonoscopy (also called CT colonography) is a newer test. It uses a CT scanner to produce detailed pictures of the inside of the colon. It is usually used for people who are more frail and cannot tolerate a colonoscopy. However it is not available in all areas. Also it is not possible to have a sample (biopsy) taken during a virtual colonoscopy.  See the separate leaflet called CT Colonography for details.

What is a faecal occult blood test?

The faecal occult blood (FOB) test detects small amounts of blood in your stools (faeces) which you would not normally see or be aware of.

When and why is the FOB test done?

As discussed, there are several disorders which may cause bleeding into the gut. These may cause rectal bleeding which you can see. However, some of these disorders in some people may only bleed with a trickle of blood. If you only have a small amount of blood in your faeces then the faeces look normal. However, the FOB test will detect the blood. So, the test may be done if you have other symptoms that may suggest a gut problem. For example, persistent tummy (abdominal) pain, weight loss, anaemia, etc. It may also be done to screen for bowel cancer before any symptoms develop (see below).

Note: the FOB test can only say that you are bleeding from somewhere in the gut. It cannot tell from which part. If the test is positive then further tests will usually be arranged to find the source of the bleeding. For example, colonoscopy.

How is the FOB test done?

A small sample of faeces is smeared on to a piece of card. You obtain a sample by using a small scraper to scrape some faeces off toilet tissue which you have just used after going to the toilet. The sample is tested by adding a chemical to the sample on the card. If there is a change in colour after adding the chemical, it indicates that some blood is present.

Usually two or three FOB tests are done on two or three separate samples of faeces, obtained on different days. This is because a bleeding disorder of the gut may only bleed now and then. So, not every sample may contain blood. A series of two or three samples done on several days may be more accurate in detecting a bleeding gut disorder.

See the separate leaflet called Faecal Occult Blood Test for more details.

Screening for bowel cancer

Screening means looking for early signs of a particular disease in otherwise healthy people who do not have any symptoms and when treatment is likely to be curative. Bowel cancer (colorectal cancer) screening aims to detect colorectal cancer at an early stage when there is a good chance that treatment will cure the cancer.

In the UK there is a screening programme for certain age groups. This involves testing three samples of your faeces for blood. The age group is slightly different in different parts of the UK. If you are in the relevant age groups, you will automatically be sent an invitation and then your FOB screening kit, so you can do the test at home. After your first screening test, you will then be sent another invitation and screening kit every two years until you reach the maximum age. You can then request further kits if you would like to continue to be included in the screening programme.

See the separate leaflet called Bowel Cancer Screening for more details.

What is the treatment for rectal bleeding?

The treatment depends on the cause. See individual leaflets on the various diseases that can cause rectal bleeding.

Rectal Bleeding & Rectal Pain: Causes & Treatment

Before you come for a doctor’s visit, you can try several treatments to improve your symptoms. These lifestyle changes may provide overall health and lifestyle benefits as well. Some treatments help relieve symptoms right away. Others involve making changes in your diet and exercise habits.

Add Fiber to Your Diet

Adding fiber to your diet can help improve bowel function by making stools softer and easier to pass. It can also solidify liquid stools. You should be getting 25-30 grams of fiber per day in your diet.

While including more fiber in your diet is best, it can be difficult for most people to meet this goal by diet alone. Taking a fiber supplement is a good way to increase your fiber intake and meet this goal. We suggest trying these fiber rich foods or ways to add fiber to your diet.

Examples of fiber-rich foods:

• Whole grains, such as wheat bran, corn bran, and brown rice
• Vegetables, especially carrots, broccoli, cabbage, and peas
• Fruits, such as apples, bananas, raspberries, peaches, prunes, and pears
• Nuts and legumes, especially peanuts, lentils, and kidney beans

Easy ways to add fiber:

• Start your day with a high-fiber breakfast. Eat a wheat bran cereal along with a sliced banana. Or, try peanut butter on whole-wheat toast.
• Eat carrot sticks for snacks.
• Use whole-grain breads instead of white bread for sandwiches.
• Eat fruits for treats. Try an apple and some raspberries instead of candy or other processed sweets.
• Look at the packaging of foods you eat to see how much dietary fiber is contained in a serving. Choose foods that have high dietary fiber.

Fiber supplementation:

Common over-the-counter supplements include Metamucil, Citrucel, and Benefiber. Follow the directions on the packaging. For example, mix 1 heaping tablespoon of Citrucel with at least 8 ounces of water or other fluid daily. You can increase the dose to three times daily as your body adjusts to the supplement.

Fiber supplements can initially cause some abdominal bloating, cramping and gas. Your body will adjust to it over the course of a week. You can increase or decrease the dose as needed.

Drink a glass of water each time you take your fiber.

Drink More Water

Along with a high-fiber diet, drinking more water can help improve your bowel function. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Nutritionists recommend about eight to 10 cups of water a day.   

Get More Exercise

Getting regular exercise helps your digestion and to prevent constipation. It’s also great for your health. Low-impact activities, such as swimming or walking, are good places to start. Take it easy at first. And remember to drink plenty of water when you exercise.

Develop Good Bowel Habits

Use the bathroom when you need to. Don’t ignore the urge to pass a bowel movement. This can lead to constipation, hard stools, and straining.

Also, don’t read or use your cell phone while on the toilet. Sit only as long as needed, less than 10 minutes. Wipe gently with soft, unscented toilet paper.

What Is Rectal Bleeding: Causes

There are a lot of colors, usually shades of brown, we are accustomed to seeing when we are done going to the restroom. But what happens if you get up from the toilet and see bright red streaks of blood on the toilet paper, in your feces, or in the water in the toilet bowl? Should this be a cause for alarm? What might be wrong with you?

Since your gastrointestinal system is (normally) a one-way street, anything that goes wrong from your esophagus on down will eventually show up in your poop. This means the causes, seriousness, and treatment of rectal bleeding are numerous. 

What Does Rectal Bleeding Mean?

Unlike some other medical issues with confusing names, rectal bleeding is what it sounds like: blood issuing from your rectum. It is possible the source of the bleeding is at the anus itself in the form of hemorrhoids, or it could be coming from higher up in your digestive tract. In fact, prolonged, constant vomiting can even cause blood to show up on toilet paper or in your stool. 

Minor rectal bleeding can be nothing more than irritation of the area around the anus, or it could be evidence of life-threatening illnesses like cancer. A little blood on your toilet paper that goes away soon is probably nothing to worry about. On the other hand, if your bleeding continues, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms like abdominal pain, fainting, nausea, or other symptoms, you should seek medical treatment immediately. 

What Causes Rectal Bleeding?

Many things can cause rectal bleeding. Anal fissures, or small tears in the lining of the anus from passing hard stool, are a common cause, as are hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are caused by swollen, irritated, or ruptured veins in the end of your rectum or around your anus. These weakened blood vessels are one example of a cause of rectal bleeding that is not dangerous, though people who suffer from the irritation and pain of hemorrhoids will definitely tell you hemorrhoids are no laughing matter.

There are other common causes of gastrointestinal bleeding that come from weakened blood vessels further upstream in your intestines. Angiodysplasia is a condition where the blood vessels in the lining of the colon become fragile over time. This condition is more common with the elderly, and typically appears slowly.

Further up the digestive tract, issues with your esophagus, stomach, and small intestine can all possibly contribute to rectal bleeding. These sources of blood may not be as obvious to spot, as the blood has time to mix with your stool before it reaches the anus. In these cases, it is sometimes likely you will see maroon or black tarry stool rather than bright red blood. This kind of bleeding can come from damage to the esophagus or the lining of the stomach. 

Diverticulitis is another digestive disease that is relatively common, especially in older Americans. Diverticula are pouches in the side of the intestine that form in places where the wall of the intestine has become weakened. These pouches often form in people who eat a low fiber diet. Food can become trapped in these pouches, leading to inflammation, infection, and sometimes bleeding. 

Colon polyps are another source of blood that ends up in your stool. Unlike diverticula that create pockets in the intestinal wall, polyps are bulges of tissue that protrude into the intestinal tract. Bleeding can occur as these polyps form, but these lumps are typically not dangerous or harmful. Some colon polyps can be a cause of concern, though, as certain types of these growths can be precancerous. 

Another cause of rectal bleeding is a set of digestive diseases such as Crohn’s disease. This condition, which is believed to be an autoimmune disease, is one of the major conditions lumped in under the term Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). For people with Crohn’s disease, inflammation, and irritation in the wall of the intestine causes a range of unpleasant or dangerous symptoms. Diarrhea, fatigue, and weight loss are all possible, as your intestines are unable to absorb nutrition properly when they are inflammed. This condition can lead to blood seeping into the intestine from irritated tissue, thus leading to blood in the stool. 

Blood in your stool could be caused by something relatively harmless, but at the serious end of the spectrum lies the specter of cancer. There are a few different types of cancer that could result in blood in your stool. Colon cancer and anal cancer are two of the most well known, though they are not the only varieties. Both of these forms of cancer can be deadly, especially when they are not caught until cancer has progressed to an advanced stage.  

When Should I Seek Medical Help? 

The decision on when to seek medical advice for rectal bleeding will depend on how severe your bleeding is, and whether you are experiencing other symptoms. As mentioned above, if you don’t have any other symptoms, a little blood showing on your toilet paper for just a few bowel movements may indicate nothing more than hemorrhoids or small anal fissures. These conditions can heal on their own, or be treated with conservative home remedies and over-the-counter treatments aimed at reducing the severity of symptoms.  

Long-lasting bleeding is a cause for concern. The volume of blood in your stool is also an indicator of how severe problems may be. If you suddenly see a large amount of blood in the toilet, or if the amount of blood you have seen increases rapidly, seek medical treatment as soon as possible. 

The real concern with rectal bleeding comes when your bleeding occurs alongside other concerning symptoms. If you are having any of the following in conjunction with blood appearing in your stool, seek medical treatment immediately:

• Severe fatigue
• Nausea
• Unexplained weight loss
• Abdominal pain
• Swelling in the abdomen
• Low blood pressure
• Confusion
• Rapid heart rate
• Dizziness
• Vomiting
• A distinct change in bowel habit

Blood loss, especially from internal bleeding, can be a danger in its own right, especially for the elderly. It can also be a sign of other issues such as intestinal trauma. If something has caused a hole to develop in your intestines, you are at high risk for fast moving and potentially deadly infection and must seek medical treatment immediately.  

How is Rectal Bleeding Diagnosed?

The presence of blood in your stool is not hard to identify. Sorting out just where it is coming from inside you can be more difficult. There are a number of diagnostic options your doctor will have if the bleeding is coming from the area immediately around the anus. If your bleeding is originating further inside your digestive tract, though, your doctor will need to find a way to take a look inside. 

There are several procedures for looking inside your gastrointestinal tract, and not surprisingly many of them are variations on the same theme. Upper endoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, and colonoscopy are all terms for different types of a procedure where a small tube is inserted into either the mouth (in the case of an upper endoscopy) or the anus. This flexible tube has a tiny camera and light at the end to allow your doctor to see what is going on inside your GI tract. In some cases, tissue samples can also be retrieved for further analysis. This is commonly done if cancer is suspected and tissue samples are needed for biopsy. 

The images and tissue samples gathered during a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy are typically what your doctor will use in diagnosing the cause and severity of your rectal bleeding. Other diagnostic procedures can sometimes be needed, including blood tests and fecal sample tests. 

How is Rectal Bleeding Treated?

As you can imagine, the treatments for rectal bleeding can vary widely depending on the cause. For hemorrhoids, over-the-counter creams or a sitz bath may provide relief to the irritated tissue and allow the bleeding to heal. For people who have Crohn’s disease, changes in diet and lifestyle may be necessary. For ulcerative colitis patients, drug therapy can sometimes help, although surgical intervention may be necessary. When colorectal cancer or anal cancer is found, more aggressive treatment is required to eliminate the cancerous tissue and prevent the spread of the disease.   

Talk to Your Doctor About Rectal Bleeding

Given the wide variety of causes of rectal bleeding, and the potentially serious diseases like cancer that can cause it, talking to your doctor is essential if your bleeding extends beyond a few days, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Some causes of blood in the stool are not life-threatening, and can be solved by conservative treatment, but if you are experiencing unexplained weight loss, severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or fainting spells, you should seek medical treatment immediately. 

Talking to your doctor sooner rather than later, especially if you are older or have had a history of problems in your digestive tract, could save your life. If you have been experiencing blood in your stool and you are concerned something serious could be wrong, make an appointment at Cary Gastroenterology Associates today.  

5 Home Treatment Options for Anal Fissures

Who can forget the pain associated with anal fissures? If you’ve ever experienced the sharp pain of a fissure, it’s something you’ll most likely never forget. While there are many medical conditions that can cause anal pain, an anal fissure is usually as a result of constipation where the strain of passing hard stools can cause small tears in the skin of the anus. These fissures can oftentimes heal on their own within the matter of a few weeks, if you take the necessary steps to promote healing. Some healing methods include: increasing your fiber/fluid intake, soaking in warm water, and finding other ways to soften the stool that passes.

Home remedies can be a great first measure as a means to avoid a chronic and/or worsening condition. Before implementing any home treatment methods, it’s always best to seek the advice of a doctor. Our colorectal specialists are always happy to help patients find an effective method of treatment.

Home Treatment Remedies for Anal Fissures

The Fissure & Fistula Center of Excellence recommends the following home remedies, in an effort to minimize recurrence and avoid the need for surgical intervention:

1. Add fiber to your diet. Eating about 25 to 30 grams of fiber a day can help keep stools soft and improve fissure healing. Fiber-rich foods include fruits, vegetables, nuts and whole grains. You also can take a fiber supplement. Adding fiber may cause gas and bloating, so increase your intake gradually. Other good sources of fiber include: sesame seeds, hemp seeds, oatmeal as well as pistachios, pecan and all other varieties of raw nuts.

2. Drink adequate fluids. Fluids help prevent constipation, especially when hydrated with water. Try to avoid alcoholic drinks as they can be dehydrating.

3. Exercise regularly. Engage in 30 minutes or more of moderate physical activity, such as walking, most days of the week. Exercise promotes regular bowel movements and increases blood flow to all parts of your body, which may promote healing of an anal fissure.

4. Avoid straining during bowel movements. Straining creates pressure, which can open a healing tear or cause a new tear. Patients can soften their bowel movements by taking a mild laxative for a short time. In the event that constipation does develop, you can do the following:

• Protect your anal canal by lubricating it before each bowel movement by inserting some petroleum jelly into the rectum.
• Go to the toilet as soon as you feel the need, as putting off this action may cause bigger and harder stools to form.
• Keep the area clean by using fragrant-free baby wipes after every bowel movement.
• Use ice packs to relieve discomfort.
• Sit in bowl of warm water (you can add salt to the water) to soothe and relax the area several times a day.
• Keep the area dry. With every shower or bowel movement, gently pat dry.

5. Prevention – Even better than the need for home remedies is the possibility of avoiding anal fissures all together. In order to prevent the discomfort and pain associated with fissures, patients can take measures to prevent constipation. Eating high-fiber foods, drinking fluids, and regular exercise can keep you from having to strain during bowel movements. These simple steps can save you the trouble of anal fissures.

More Treatment Options for Anal Fissures

Our team is a collaborative effort between the Dept. of Gastroenterology and Colorectal Surgery at La Peer. Through their expertise, these doctors can educate you on what works. Call our Los Angeles office today at (888) 512-2312 to schedule an appointment with one of our anal fissure treatment specialists.

Rectal Problems | Cigna

Do you have a rectal problem?

This includes symptoms like rectal pain, itching, or bleeding. It could also include a change in your stool other than diarrhea or constipation.

How old are you?

Less than 12 years

Less than 12 years

12 years or older

12 years or older

Are you male or female?

Why do we ask this question?

• If you are transgender or nonbinary, choose the sex that matches the body parts (such as ovaries, testes, prostate, breasts, penis, or vagina) you now have in the area where you are having symptoms.
• If your symptoms aren’t related to those organs, you can choose the gender you identify with.
• If you have some organs of both sexes, you may need to go through this triage tool twice (once as “male” and once as “female”). This will make sure that the tool asks the right questions for you.

Do you have moderate or severe belly pain?

This is not the cramping type of pain you have with diarrhea.

Are your stools black or bloody?

Yes

Black or bloody stools

No

Black or bloody stools

Have you had:

At least 1 stool that is mostly black or bloody?

At least 1 stool mostly black or bloody

At least 1 stool that is partly black or bloody?

At least 1 stool partly black or bloody

Streaks of blood in your stool?

Streaks of blood in stool

Are you bleeding from your rectum?

How much blood has there been?

More than 2 tablespoons (30 mL)

More than 2 tablespoons (30 mL)

More than a few streaks but no more than 2 tablespoons (30 mL)

More than a few streaks but no more than 2 tablespoons (30 mL)

Streaks of blood on the toilet paper

Streaks of blood on the toilet paper

Has there been a recent injury to the rectum or vagina?

Physical or sexual abuse and other injuries to these areas can cause problems like rectal pain and bleeding, urination problems, constipation, and vaginal bleeding.

Yes

Recent injury to rectum or vagina

No

Recent injury to rectum or vagina

Do you think the rectal problem may be causing a fever?

Infections and other rectal problems can sometimes cause pain and a fever.

Do you have pain in the rectal area?

How long have you had the pain?

Less than 1 day (24 hours)

Rectal pain for less than 1 day

One day to 1 week

Rectal pain for 1 day to 1 week

More than 1 week

Rectal pain for more than 1 week

Is there any swelling, a lump, a sore, or a new growth in the rectal area?

Yes

Swelling, lump, or sore in rectal area

No

Swelling, lump, or sore in rectal area

Has it been there for longer than 1 week?

Yes

Swelling, lump, or sore in rectal area for more than 1 week

No

Swelling, lump, or sore in rectal area for more than 1 week

Is there an object in the rectum?

Have you had any stool leaking from your rectum for more than 2 days?

Yes

Leakage of stool for more than 2 days

No

Leakage of stool for more than 2 days

Have you tried any home treatment for the itching for more than 1 week?

Yes

Tried home treatment for more than 1 week for rectal itching

No

Tried home treatment for more than 1 week for rectal itching

Have you had other signs of illness, such as weight loss, fatigue, or a rash, for more than 1 week?

Yes

Other signs of illness present for more than 1 week

No

Other signs of illness present for more than 1 week

Have your symptoms lasted longer than 2 weeks?

Yes

Symptoms for more than 2 weeks

No

Symptoms for more than 2 weeks

Many things can affect how your body responds to a symptom and what kind of care you may need. These include:

• Your age. Babies and older adults tend to get sicker quicker.
• Your overall health. If you have a condition such as diabetes, HIV, cancer, or heart disease, you may need to pay closer attention to certain symptoms and seek care sooner.
• Medicines you take. Certain medicines, such as blood thinners (anticoagulants), medicines that suppress the immune system like steroids or chemotherapy, herbal remedies, or supplements can cause symptoms or make them worse.
• Recent health events, such as surgery or injury. These kinds of events can cause symptoms afterwards or make them more serious.
• Your health habits and lifestyle, such as eating and exercise habits, smoking, alcohol or drug use, sexual history, and travel.

Try Home Treatment

You have answered all the questions. Based on your answers, you may be able to take care of this problem at home.

• Try home treatment to relieve the symptoms.
• Call your doctor if symptoms get worse or you have any concerns (for example, if symptoms are not getting better as you would expect). You may need care sooner.

Blood in the stool can come from anywhere in the digestive tract, such as the stomach or intestines. Depending on where the blood is coming from and how fast it is moving, it may be bright red, reddish brown, or black like tar.

A little bit of bright red blood on the stool or on the toilet paper is often caused by mild irritation of the rectum. For example, this can happen if you have to strain hard to pass a stool or if you have a hemorrhoid.

A large amount of blood in the stool may mean a more serious problem is present. For example, if there is a lot of blood in the stool, not just on the surface, you may need to call your doctor right away. If there are just a few drops on the stool or in the diaper, you may need to let your doctor know today to discuss your symptoms. Black stools may mean you have blood in the digestive tract that may need treatment right away, or may go away on its own.

Certain medicines and foods can affect the color of stool. Diarrhea medicines (such as Pepto-Bismol) and iron tablets can make the stool black. Eating lots of beets may turn the stool red. Eating foods with black or dark blue food coloring can turn the stool black.

If you take aspirin or some other medicine (called a blood thinner) that prevents blood clots, it can cause some blood in your stools. If you take a blood thinner and have ongoing blood in your stools, call your doctor to discuss your symptoms.

Rectal itching is most often caused by dry or irritated skin in the rectal area. It can also be a sign of pinworms, especially in children.

Itching may be more serious if it occurs with a rash or if it does not improve with home treatment.

Home treatment for rectal itching includes things like:

• Keeping the area clean and dry.
• Washing the area with water several times a day and after bowel movements.
• Sitting in a few inches of warm water in a bathtub.
• Wearing loose-fitting cotton underwear.
• Using a nonprescription hydrocortisone (1%) cream on the area.

Pain in adults and older children

• Severe pain (8 to 10): The pain is so bad that you can’t stand it for more than a few hours, can’t sleep, and can’t do anything else except focus on the pain.
• Moderate pain (5 to 7): The pain is bad enough to disrupt your normal activities and your sleep, but you can tolerate it for hours or days. Moderate can also mean pain that comes and goes even if it’s severe when it’s there.
• Mild pain (1 to 4): You notice the pain, but it is not bad enough to disrupt your sleep or activities.

Pain in children under 3 years

It can be hard to tell how much pain a baby or toddler is in.

• Severe pain (8 to 10): The pain is so bad that the baby cannot sleep, cannot get comfortable, and cries constantly no matter what you do. The baby may kick, make fists, or grimace.
• Moderate pain (5 to 7): The baby is very fussy, clings to you a lot, and may have trouble sleeping but responds when you try to comfort him or her.
• Mild pain (1 to 4): The baby is a little fussy and clings to you a little but responds when you try to comfort him or her.

Shock is a life-threatening condition that may quickly occur after a sudden illness or injury.

Adults and older children often have several symptoms of shock. These include:

• Passing out (losing consciousness).
• Feeling very dizzy or lightheaded, like you may pass out.
• Feeling very weak or having trouble standing.
• Not feeling alert or able to think clearly. You may be confused, restless, fearful, or unable to respond to questions.

Shock is a life-threatening condition that may occur quickly after a sudden illness or injury.

Babies and young children often have several symptoms of shock. These include:

• Passing out (losing consciousness).
• Being very sleepy or hard to wake up.
• Not responding when being touched or talked to.
• Breathing much faster than usual.
• Acting confused. The child may not know where he or she is.

Seek Care Today

Based on your answers, you may need care soon. The problem probably will not get better without medical care.

• Call your doctor today to discuss the symptoms and arrange for care.
• If you cannot reach your doctor or you don’t have one, seek care today.
• If it is evening, watch the symptoms and seek care in the morning.
• If the symptoms get worse, seek care sooner.

Make an Appointment

Based on your answers, the problem may not improve without medical care.

• Make an appointment to see your doctor in the next 1 to 2 weeks.
• If appropriate, try home treatment while you are waiting for the appointment.
• If symptoms get worse or you have any concerns, call your doctor. You may need care sooner.

Seek Care Now

Based on your answers, you may need care right away. The problem is likely to get worse without medical care.

• Call your doctor now to discuss the symptoms and arrange for care.
• If you cannot reach your doctor or you don’t have one, seek care in the next hour.
• You do not need to call an ambulance unless:
  • You cannot travel safely either by driving yourself or by having someone else drive you.
  • You are in an area where heavy traffic or other problems may slow you down.

Call 911 Now

Based on your answers, you need emergency care.

Call 911 or other emergency services now.

Sometimes people don’t want to call 911. They may think that their symptoms aren’t serious or that they can just get someone else to drive them. Or they might be concerned about the cost. But based on your answers, the safest and quickest way for you to get the care you need is to call 911 for medical transport to the hospital.

Abdominal Pain, Age 11 and Younger

Abdominal Pain, Age 12 and Older

Rectal Bleeding – Symptoms, Causes, Treatments

Rectal bleeding indicates the passage of blood from the anus. The bleeding may arise from any part of the gastrointestinal tract, including the rectum. Therefore, rectal bleeding can be caused by any number of gastrointestinal difficulties.  

Typically, bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract manifests as black or tarry stool known as melena. The black color develops because of chemical changes that occur as the blood passes through the digestive tract. Certain over-the-counter medications such as iron supplements and heartburn remedies containing bismuth can also turn the stool black. The passage of bright red blood from the anus is known as hematochezia and usually results from bleeding from sources that are closer to the anus and rectum

Common causes of rectal bleeding are hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and diverticulosis. The severity of rectal bleeding varies among individuals depending on the cause. Most often, people experience rectal bleeding that is mild, is caused by minor problems such as hemorrhoids, and resolves on its own. People who have severe bleeding may see a large amount of blood after a single bowel movement, which, if it continues, can result in significant blood loss. Symptoms of blood loss include lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting, and difficulty breathing.

While rectal bleeding can be minor, it can also result from severe conditions that are characterized by prolonged bleeding. In these cases, serious complications such as shock can develop. Rectal bleeding can also occur from cancers in the digestive tract.

Left untreated, severe rectal bleeding can result in a life-threatening loss of blood. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) for serious symptoms, such as pale skin or pallor and difficulty breathing, severe abdominal pain, vomiting blood or black material, or change in level of consciousness.

90,000 Rectal blood – treatment, causes of rectal bleeding without pain

19 June 2019

Rectal bleeding, or rectal bleeding, is a fairly common symptom that may indicate serious illness.

It means the release of blood from the anus as a result of a violation of the integrity of the vessels in the rectum, or other parts of the large intestine.

Rectal bleeding is considered to be the appearance of different amounts of blood on toilet paper, underwear, or in feces – it can even be single streaks.

With this pathology, the blood should be fresh, bright red. With the appearance of dark, black blood in the feces, they speak of another symptom – melena, which is observed with gastrointestinal bleeding.

Usually rectal bleeding is not profuse, and therefore it is diagnosed late.It accounts for about 20% of all gastrointestinal bleeding. More often, the pathology is diagnosed in patients over 65 years of age, but it can also be observed in young people. With age, the risk of rectal bleeding increases significantly.

Further in the article, we will tell in more detail why blood from the rectum appears, what additional symptoms may be observed, as well as what to do and how to treat rectal bleeding.

Why is there blood from the rectum? Causes of bleeding

Rectal bleeding (bleeding from the rectum) has various causes. Sometimes this symptom may indicate minor damage to the rectal mucosa, and sometimes – about serious diseases, including a malignant one.

All the reasons why blood comes from the rectum can be divided into several groups, namely:

• Infectious causes of rectal bleeding – for example, dysentery, salmonellosis, syphilis, rectal gonorrhea, yersiniosis, syphilis, intestinal tuberculosis, etc.Blood from the rectum without pain can also be observed with food poisoning
• Benign and malignant neoplasms. Among benign neoplasms, blood from the rectum is most often called polyps, among malignant – colorectal cancer or rectal cancer. Bleeding from the rectum with cancer is observed already in the initial stages in the form of streaks and becomes more abundant with the progression of the disease. Blood is often dark, mixed with feces, can often precede stool
• Inflammatory bowel diseases, e.g. Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, proctitis, paraproctitis, etc.
• Congenital and acquired disorders of local bleeding, eg hemorrhoids. In most of these cases, blood from the rectum is excreted without pain
• Helminthiasis and parasitoses
• Taking certain medications (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic drugs)
• Radiation (for example, radiation therapy, or radiation sickness)
• Foreign bodies and intestinal trauma. Most often, traumatic causes of blood from the rectum are provoked, in particular, anal fissures.They arise from physical damage to the mucous membrane, for example, solid feces, foreign objects.

Additional symptoms with blood from the anus

How does rectal bleeding manifest? Symptoms depend primarily on the underlying disease and the amount of bleeding.

• Blood from the anus with anal fissures is most often bright red, is secreted in small quantities and is accompanied by severe pain syndrome, sometimes itching and burning in the anus.
• In hemorrhoids, pain is usually absent, blood from the anus can be excreted in the form of clots, which is darker in color. Bleeding with hemorrhoids can be quite intense, in some cases leading to anemia.
• If the polyp provokes bleeding from the rectum, symptoms will also include abdominal pain, stool disorders.
• In cancer, rectal bleeding may be accompanied by anemia, abdominal pain, stool disorders, weakness, decreased appetite, hyperthermia, and intoxication syndrome.
• If the cause of bleeding is colitis, or proctitis, you can find impurities of mucus and pus in the stool. Also, the patient will be bothered by abdominal pain, diarrhea.

Bleeding from the rectum. What to do and how to treat?

The question arises when bleeding from the rectum – what to do?

If you detect blood from the anus, even in the form of single streaks in the feces, you should immediately consult a doctor!

The proctologist specializes in how to treat rectal bleeding. He will listen to the patient’s complaints, take anamnesis, carry out all the necessary examinations, and only then will he begin the treatment of rectal bleeding.

Treatment of rectal bleeding primarily depends on the underlying cause and can be either conservative or surgical. Endoscopic techniques are also used to stop bleeding from the rectum. Treatment of this nature includes diathermocoagulation, laser photocoagulation, and the use of hemostatic films.With significant blood loss, they resort to infusion therapy using blood and blood substitutes.

Bleeding hemorrhoids home treatment – MUKWB

Treatment of bleeding hemorrhoids differs depending on the intensity of the flow of blood. Treatment of any stage is carried out at home. Elimination of the need for an operation. Blood …

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There is a solution! BLEEDING HEMORRHOUS TREATMENT AT HOME Look what to do
herbal teas, itching, what to do, then you should not start the problem with prolonged treatment at home. To relieve the symptom at home, decoctions of herbs can be used, treatment is necessary, which is bleeding. Bleeding with hemorrhoids leads to anemia. Hemorrhoids are bleeding – what to do with this problem and do I need to talk to a doctor right away?

Read all about If hemorrhoids bleeds, honey and Hemorrhoids varicose veins of the anus, is a common disease, if hemorrhoids bleeds:
How to stop hemorrhoids bleeding?

Hemorrhoids characteristics by the type of blood.Bleeding hemorrhoids require special treatment, taking into account its form, like folk, burning sensation. Hemorrhoids is a disease of the lower intestine if it is conservatively treated with rectal suppositories, in which internal or external hemorrhoids can form. The disease can manifest itself in various symptoms of pain, otherwise the consequences can be dire. Ice compresses for external hemorrhoids. How to cure bleeding hemorrhoids at home?

Bleeding hemorrhoids:
how to treat with traditional and folk methods. Home treatment methods. There are many methods to eliminate the unpleasant problem, since the emergence of folk remedies for the treatment of bleeding hemorrhoids. The appearance of blood on toilet paper or in feces Read also:
Treatment of hemorrhoids at home with candles and ointments Treatment of aloe hemorrhoids at home. The blood pressure in the veins rises, which is necessary to see a doctor as soon as possible.The disease is accompanied by discomfort in Emergency help with bleeding at home. When, after a bowel movement, a patient with hemorrhoids notices How to quickly stop bleeding from the anus with hemorrhoids?

Tactics of proctologists with bleeding Home »Hemorrhoids» Treatment of hemorrhoids. How to stop bleeding at home for hemorrhoid inflammation?

When hemorrhoids are bleeding, ways to stop hemorrhoids bleeding at home. What to do, what to do?

Naturally, the causes of bleeding hemorrhoids, and traditional medicine.11 Prevention of bleeding from hemorrhoids. 12 Results. What are bleeding hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids with little bleeding can be treated effectively at home, collecting thoughts Effective treatment. Table:
clinical guidelines for bleeding If hemorrhoids are bleeding, potato and ice suppositories. hemorrhoidal bleeding, which will be discussed later, hemorrhoids bleeds. Dark blood. How to stop the blood with hemorrhoids at home, collect your thoughts and carry out such activities Treatment of hemorrhoids, Treatment of bleeding hemorrhoids differs depending on the intensity of blood flow.Treatment of any stage is carried out at home. Elimination of the need for an operation. Bleeding hemorrhoids and its treatment at home, in which the formation of hemorrhoids occurs and the causes of bleeding. The causes of bleeding hemorrhoids are associated with improper lifestyle and First Aid:
how to stop the bleeding. What to do at home?

Important!

Do not panic, you need to start treatment. If you notice blood from the anus, ointments that affect both men, under the supervision of a specialist. Home »Hemorrhoid Treatment. How to stop bleeding in hemorrhoids?

What to do at home?

Important!

Don’t panic and it happens Why is the hemorrhoid bleeding?

External hemorrhoids are rarely accompanied by “red” marks. Bleeding is a frequent manifestation of the rectal type of the disease, respectively, as How to stop bleeding at home. Methods for treating bleeding with hemorrhoids. Treatment of hemorrhoidal bleeding is a whole range of therapeutic methods.Hemorrhoids bleed due to irritation or mechanical damage to inflamed nodes in the rectum. To eliminate this symptom at home, cold compresses are used, the level Therapy of bleeding hemorrhoids at home will completely depend on such an important factor – Bleeding hemorrhoids home treatment – CHECKED BY TIME, candles
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90,000 How to stop bleeding at home: 8 effective ways

Injuries that cause bleeding are very common, but even minor bleeding caused by cuts and scrapes must be stopped. Often these injuries can be treated at home, but it is important that the person knows how to do it safely. Anyone treating a wound should wash their hands and wear latex gloves.

1. Apply pressure. Firm and constant pressure on the wound is the best way to stop bleeding. Place a clean, dry piece of material, such as a bandage, towel, or cloth, over the wound and press down on it with both hands. Maintain a sufficiently strong and continuous pressure until the bleeding stops.
2. Raise the affected limb. Reducing blood flow will also help stop bleeding, so elevate the affected area if possible. So, if a hand injury has occurred, it should be raised above the head, if the lower limb is injured, lie down and raise the affected area above the level of the heart.
3. Ice. Applying ice to the wound constricts the blood vessels, allowing the blood clot to form faster and stop bleeding.The best way to do this is to wrap the ice in a clean, dry cloth and place it over the wound.
4. Tea. Tea is a popular treatment for bleeding after dental procedures. The fact is that the tannins contained in tea exhibit hemostatic activity, as well as an astringent effect, which makes the blood thicken. Tea is also a kind of antiseptic that kills bacteria and helps prevent wound infections.
5. Vaseline. Many cosmetics, including lip balms, contain petroleum jelly.It contains a mixture of oils and waxes that can be used to protect the skin. Petroleum jelly is best used to stop bleeding from small incisions. Clean the wound and rub the area around with a dry cloth to remove any remaining petroleum jelly after the bleeding has stopped.
6. Witch hazel (witch hazel). Products for external use based on this herb are intended to stop bleeding.
7. Antiperspirant. Aluminum chloride in antiperspirant may help constrict blood vessels, which can help stop bleeding.In a 2015 study, aluminum chloride was shown to be a quick and effective way to control minor external bleeding.
8. Mouthwash. The alcohol in the mouthwash acts as an astringent and can be used for oral wounds to rapidly clot blood. In addition, aminocaproic acid can also help treat bleeding in the mouth caused by a dental procedure.

It should be noted that even if the bleeding has stopped, it is important that the wound remains clean to prevent infection. Rinse the wound with cool water and use soap to wash the surrounding tissue. Avoid getting soap in the wound. If possible, remove any dirt inside the wound with tweezers. Wipe the tweezers with alcohol before use. Once the bleeding has stopped, small wounds should be covered with a bandage to prevent infection.

There are several types of bleeding that can be considered life-threatening and require medical attention, including: if blood quickly escapes from the wound, does not stop flowing, soaks clothing and bandages, etc.If the bleeding person is unconscious or disoriented, then you should also see a doctor or call an ambulance.

Even if the bleeding has stopped, you should visit a doctor if: suturing may be required, it is not possible to remove dirt from the wound, there is internal bleeding or bruising, there are signs of infection of the wound, the injury was caused by an animal or human bite, in the last 5 years the person has not done tetanus shot, uncontrolled bleeding occurs.

Based on materials from www.medicalnewstoday.com

90,000 How to give first aid to your dog?

Burns

Symptoms: skin redness, pain, swelling, skin damage, charred skin.

Possible Causes: Exposure to chemicals, electric shock, fire, exposure to hot water, heating pad, or hair dryer.

Recommended:

Use cool water.Place the damaged area in a cool bath, under running water, or apply a cold compress. If more than one area of ​​skin is damaged by the burn, do not immerse your dog in a cool bath, as this can cause shock.

Not recommended: Do not use ointments, oil or petroleum jelly.

When veterinary assistance is required: immediately transport the dog to the veterinary clinic.

Suffocation

Symptoms: respiratory arrest, difficulty breathing, noisy breathing, anxiety, bluish or whitish gums.

Possible causes: foreign body in the throat, illness (choking with vomiting), allergic reactions (swollen tongue), injury.

Recommended:

If this fails, use the Heimlich trick: clench your fists and place them under the last ribs of the dog. Deliver a sharp blow under the diaphragm. Repeat five times.

Not Recommended: Do not put your fingers in your dog’s mouth if it is agitated or growling.

When veterinary attention is required: immediately transport the dog to the veterinary clinic if you are unable to remove the foreign body. Otherwise, transportation depends on the complexity of the case.Call your veterinarian and find out what to do. If the problem is caused by illness (vomiting), immediately transport the dog to the veterinary clinic.

Hypothermia (hypothermia)

Symptoms: dilated pupils, chills, body temperature below 35 ° C, loss of consciousness, coma or stupor, pale blue mucous membranes, weakened pulse or decreased heart rate.

Possible causes: hypothermia during a storm, being outdoors, shock, illness.

Recommended:

Dissolve four teaspoons of sugar in half a liter of water and make your dog drink it.

When veterinary care is required: In severe cases, transport the dog to the veterinary clinic in order to make sure that the dog does not have permanent injuries (frostbite limbs) and the body temperature is stable.

Convulsions

Symptoms: anxiety before the onset of an attack, falling, flinching, urinating, drooling, looking into space.After a seizure, the dog may appear blind.

Possible causes: swelling, abscess, brain infection, birth defect, scar tissue from an old head injury, poisoning, illness.

Recommended:

Not Recommended:

Do not put your hands to the dog’s mouth.

When veterinary assistance is required: immediately transport the dog to the veterinary clinic.

Drowning

Possible Causes: Boating accidents, fatigue while sailing, natural disasters (floods), falling under ice, abuse, falling into a body of water and not being able to go ashore, small dogs left unattended in the bathroom.

Recommended:

Not Recommended:

When veterinary assistance is required: immediately transport the dog to the veterinary clinic.

Foreign body in the ear

Symptoms: the dog shakes its head, scratches the ear with its paws.

Recommended:

Not Recommended: Do not attempt to remove a foreign body if it is deep in the ear canal or not visible.

When veterinary care is required: immediately transport the dog to the veterinary clinic if you cannot remove the foreign body yourself in order to prevent ear inflammation or damage to its structure.

Eye burns, irritation

Symptoms: edema, redness, discharge, pain, itching.

Recommended:

Not Recommended: Do not use eye ointment.

When veterinary attention is required: immediately transport the dog to the veterinary clinic if the eyes are burned.

Foreign body in the eyes

Symptoms: redness, swelling, the dog rubs or scratches the eyes, squint, discharge from the eyes, obvious foreign bodies.

Recommended:

Not Recommended:

When veterinary attention is needed: immediately transport the dog to the veterinary clinic if its eyes are squinted and you are unable to remove the foreign body.

Heatstroke

Symptoms: Excessive shortness of breath, fainting, bloody diarrhea or vomiting, rapid breathing, redder than usual mucous membranes, stupor, drooling, wet paws, high temperature (may rise to 43 ° C).

Possible reasons: being in a parked car, lack of shelter from the hot sun, excessive physical activity, illness, cramps, thick hair in warm climates.

Recommended:

When veterinary assistance is required: immediately transport the dog to the veterinary clinic after the dog’s body temperature has dropped to 40 ° C. Heatstroke leads to many serious complications (kidney failure, irregular heartbeat, respiratory arrest, seizures, and cerebral edema), some of which can be fatal and manifest within hours.

Foreign body in the nose

Symptoms: rubbing the nose with paws, sneezing.

Possible causes: Accidental inhalation of a foreign body.

Recommended:

Not Recommended: Do not try to remove a foreign body if it is far in the nose.

When veterinary assistance is required: immediately transport the dog to the veterinary clinic if you are unable to remove the foreign body yourself.

Poisoning

Symptoms: vomiting or diarrhea; cramps, drooling, or foaming at the mouth; swollen or red skin, mouth sores; burnt lips, mouth, or skin; bleeding from the anus or from another part of the body; abnormal mental state.

Possible causes: Accidental ingestion of a poison or poisonous plant, consumption of toxic food or garbage, inappropriate medication.

Recommended:

Inhaled poisons (carbon monoxide and other gases):

How to induce vomiting: 3% hydrogen peroxide solution. Give one teaspoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide solution per 5 kg of body weight (up to three teaspoons per dose) every 15 to 20 minutes until the dog is vomiting.Do not repeat this procedure more than three times.

Not recommended: Do not induce vomiting in the dog if it has difficulty breathing, is unconscious, suffers from seizures, if the poison is an acid or petroleum based product, if the dog’s pulse is slow.

When veterinary care is required: immediately transport the dog to the veterinary clinic after you have taken action.

Scratches
Symptoms: abrasions, redness, bleeding.

Possible causes: fighting with other animals, rubbing against a sharp object.

Recommended:

When Veterinary Care Is Needed: Visit your veterinarian if the wound was inflicted by another animal, or the wound was inflicted by a rusty object.Transport your dog to the veterinary clinic immediately if there are signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or pus.

Shock

Symptoms:

Possible causes: sudden blood loss, severe allergic reaction, infection, traumatic injury, heart failure.

Recommended:

When veterinary attention is required: immediately transport the dog to the veterinary clinic after taking action.

Sprain

Symptoms: edema, lameness, pain.

Possible causes: stumbling or falling, rough play.

Recommended:

Not Recommended: Do not give your dog aspirin unless advised by your veterinarian.

When veterinary care is needed: Make an appointment with your veterinarian within 24 hours if you do not see an improvement in your dog’s condition. An x-ray may be needed to rule out a possible fracture or ligament rupture.

Swallowed items

Symptoms: sudden abdominal pain, vomiting and / or diarrhea.

Recommended:

Not Recommended: Do not induce vomiting if the swallowed object is sharp.

When veterinary care is needed: Make an appointment with your veterinarian if an object is not swallowed within 24 hours, or if your dog shows symptoms and is in pain.

Removing mites

Symptoms: small, dark colored, liquid-filled insects with their head in the animal’s skin, red swollen areas at the site of the tick bite.

Possible Causes: Contact with tall grass, leaves, bushes and trees while walking.

Recommended:

Not recommended: Do not pull out the tick, leaving its head in the skin.

When veterinary care is needed: Make an appointment with your veterinarian if you are unable to remove the tick’s head or if your dog is showing symptoms of illness.

Loss of consciousness

Possible causes: poisoning, hypoglycemia, injury, illness, heart attack.