{"id":2850,"date":"2026-05-06T14:28:06","date_gmt":"2026-05-06T14:28:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/?p=2850"},"modified":"2026-10-01T07:09:03","modified_gmt":"2026-10-01T07:09:03","slug":"blood-in-stool-and-rectal-bleeding-causes-symptoms-of-diseases-and-treatment","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/blood-in-stool-and-rectal-bleeding-causes-symptoms-of-diseases-and-treatment\/","title":{"rendered":"Blood in Stool and Rectal Bleeding: Causes, Symptoms of Diseases, and Treatment"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Blood in the stool and rectal bleeding are the clearest signs of lower digestive system diseases such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, intestinal polyps, or colon cancer. This condition, which may present as bright red fresh blood, clots in a sour cherry color, or black, tar-like melena, may be accompanied by abdominal pain, changes in defecation habits, and weakness. The treatment approach varies according to the stage of the disease, from a fiber-rich diet and medical drugs to laser interventions and surgical resections. Early diagnosis and correct treatment methods planned under specialist supervision eliminate life-threatening risks and provide complete recovery.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_89 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #ffffff;color:#ffffff\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #ffffff;color:#ffffff\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/blood-in-stool-and-rectal-bleeding-causes-symptoms-of-diseases-and-treatment\/#What_Do_Rectal_Bleeding_and_Blood_in_the_Stool_Mean\" >What Do Rectal Bleeding and Blood in the Stool Mean?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/blood-in-stool-and-rectal-bleeding-causes-symptoms-of-diseases-and-treatment\/#What_Does_the_Color_of_Blood_in_the_Stool_Say_About_the_Source_of_Rectal_Bleeding\" >What Does the Color of Blood in the Stool Say About the Source of Rectal Bleeding?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/blood-in-stool-and-rectal-bleeding-causes-symptoms-of-diseases-and-treatment\/#Which_Interventions_Are_Performed_in_Cases_of_Severe_Rectal_Bleeding\" >Which Interventions Are Performed in Cases of Severe Rectal Bleeding?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/blood-in-stool-and-rectal-bleeding-causes-symptoms-of-diseases-and-treatment\/#Which_Tests_Are_Used_to_Find_the_Source_of_Blood_in_the_Stool_or_Rectal_Bleeding\" >Which Tests Are Used to Find the Source of Blood in the Stool or Rectal Bleeding?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/blood-in-stool-and-rectal-bleeding-causes-symptoms-of-diseases-and-treatment\/#Does_Hemorrhoid_Problem_Cause_Rectal_Bleeding_and_How_Is_It_Treated\" >Does Hemorrhoid Problem Cause Rectal Bleeding and How Is It Treated?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/blood-in-stool-and-rectal-bleeding-causes-symptoms-of-diseases-and-treatment\/#Is_Anal_Fissure_a_Cause_of_Blood_in_the_Stool_and_What_Are_Its_Solutions\" >Is Anal Fissure a Cause of Blood in the Stool and What Are Its Solutions?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/blood-in-stool-and-rectal-bleeding-causes-symptoms-of-diseases-and-treatment\/#Do_Anal_Abscess_and_Fistula_Lead_to_Complaint_of_Rectal_Bleeding\" >Do Anal Abscess and Fistula Lead to Complaint of Rectal Bleeding?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/blood-in-stool-and-rectal-bleeding-causes-symptoms-of-diseases-and-treatment\/#Do_Intestinal_Pouches_Cause_Us_to_See_Blood_in_the_Stool\" >Do Intestinal Pouches Cause Us to See Blood in the Stool?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/blood-in-stool-and-rectal-bleeding-causes-symptoms-of-diseases-and-treatment\/#Are_Vascular_Dilatations_in_Advanced_Ages_a_Cause_of_Rectal_Bleeding\" >Are Vascular Dilatations in Advanced Ages a Cause of Rectal Bleeding?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/blood-in-stool-and-rectal-bleeding-causes-symptoms-of-diseases-and-treatment\/#Can_Seeing_Blood_in_the_Stool_Be_a_Sign_of_Colon_Cancer\" >Can Seeing Blood in the Stool Be a Sign of Colon Cancer?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/blood-in-stool-and-rectal-bleeding-causes-symptoms-of-diseases-and-treatment\/#Who_Should_Undergo_Stool_Blood_Testing_and_Cancer_Screenings\" >Who Should Undergo Stool Blood Testing and Cancer Screenings?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/blood-in-stool-and-rectal-bleeding-causes-symptoms-of-diseases-and-treatment\/#In_Which_Cases_of_Rectal_Bleeding_Is_Emergency_Surgical_Intervention_Required\" >In Which Cases of Rectal Bleeding Is Emergency Surgical Intervention Required?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/blood-in-stool-and-rectal-bleeding-causes-symptoms-of-diseases-and-treatment\/#Which_Rare_Intestinal_Diseases_Cause_Blood_in_the_Stool\" >Which Rare Intestinal Diseases Cause Blood in the Stool?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/blood-in-stool-and-rectal-bleeding-causes-symptoms-of-diseases-and-treatment\/#What_Should_Be_Considered_After_Treatment_for_Blood_in_the_Stool_or_Rectal_Bleeding\" >What Should Be Considered After Treatment for Blood in the Stool or Rectal Bleeding?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Do_Rectal_Bleeding_and_Blood_in_the_Stool_Mean\"><\/span>What Do Rectal Bleeding and Blood in the Stool Mean?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The digestive system is an extremely detailed and functional tube structure that starts from the mouth and ends at the anus. In the world of medical anatomy, there is a special suspensory ligament that divides the digestive system into two main sections: upper and lower. All bleeding that occurs in part of the small intestines, the large intestine, rectum, and anus below this point is called lower gastrointestinal system bleeding. In the vast majority of cases encountered in daily life, the main source of bleeding is the large intestine or anal region. Although very severe bleeding of the small intestines or stomach is seen more rarely, it can mimic this condition when the leakage reaches downward.<\/p>\n<p>This condition does not always appear with the same severity or the same appearance. Sometimes, it consists of only a few very limited drops of bright red blood noticed on toilet paper. Sometimes, however, it may be mixed throughout the stool, darkened in color, or hidden enough that it cannot be noticed with the naked eye. The way the blood appears, its severity, and its frequency contain invaluable information about the nature of the underlying disease. These characteristics of the bleeding are the most basic elements that determine how urgent the process is and which diagnostic method should be used first.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Does_the_Color_of_Blood_in_the_Stool_Say_About_the_Source_of_Rectal_Bleeding\"><\/span>What Does the Color of Blood in the Stool Say About the Source of Rectal Bleeding?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The color of the blood noticed in the toilet or on underwear functions as a perfect map showing in which part of the digestive system the bleeding has occurred. The longer blood spends inside this long pipe system called the digestive system, the more it has to interact with the natural bacteria and digestive enzymes in the intestines. When the iron in the blood enters a chemical reaction with these enzymes, its color gradually darkens and its structure changes.<\/p>\n<p>For example, if the bleeding originates from a place very close to the anal region, such as a fissure or a hemorrhoidal cushion, the blood does not wait at all to come out. Therefore, it does not encounter enzymes, and its color is extremely bright, fresh red. If the bleeding occurs in slightly higher parts of the large intestine, for example in the starting points on the right side, some time passes before it comes out, and it takes on a sour cherry or burgundy color. If the bleeding has occurred in the stomach or small intestines, the journey takes much longer. The blood is completely digested and is expelled in a tar-like black, foul-smelling, and sticky form.<\/p>\n<p>Possible color changes are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Bright red<\/li>\n<li>Burgundy<\/li>\n<li>Sour cherry color<\/li>\n<li>Black<\/li>\n<li>Tar color<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_Interventions_Are_Performed_in_Cases_of_Severe_Rectal_Bleeding\"><\/span>Which Interventions Are Performed in Cases of Severe Rectal Bleeding?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>When reaching a healthcare institution with a picture of intense and unstoppable bleeding, the first point to focus on is not finding the cause of the bleeding, but protecting the body&#8217;s vital functions. When the volume of blood circulating in the vessels suddenly decreases, the human body develops a defense mechanism. The heart begins to beat much faster in order to send oxygen to the tissues, and the pulse rises. Blood vessels constrict, and blood pressure begins to drop rapidly. If this condition is not brought under control, oxygen deprivation begins at the cellular level.<\/p>\n<p>For this reason, standard and life-saving trauma steps are put into action in the first seconds. After airway safety is ensured, support is started to eliminate the oxygen deficiency of the tissues. In order to keep the circulatory system functioning, large venous lines are opened from both arms, and fluid is rapidly started to be given to the body. These fluids increase the pressure inside the vessels and stabilize blood pressure. If blood pressure does not rise despite these fluids and the patient&#8217;s color continues to fade, blood product support is started without wasting time to replace the lost cells. During blood transfusion, not only laboratory results are considered; how tired the patient&#8217;s heart is, age, and general condition are also taken into account. At the same time, in patients using aspirin or similar blood thinners, the effects of the medication are attempted to be reversed with special antidotes and fresh blood components.<\/p>\n<p>Vital supports provided in the emergency department are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Oxygen<\/li>\n<li>Peripheral venous access<\/li>\n<li>Crystalloid fluids<\/li>\n<li>Blood transfusion<\/li>\n<li>Fresh plasma<\/li>\n<li>Platelets<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_Tests_Are_Used_to_Find_the_Source_of_Blood_in_the_Stool_or_Rectal_Bleeding\"><\/span>Which Tests Are Used to Find the Source of Blood in the Stool or Rectal Bleeding?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>After the patient&#8217;s blood pressure and pulse are brought to safe limits, advanced medical devices are used to identify the epicenter of the bleeding and, if necessary, intervene directly at that point. The most valuable and most commonly used method is colonoscopy. The inside of the intestine is examined step by step through a flexible and steerable tube with a high-resolution camera and a powerful light source at its tip. During active bleeding, it is difficult to perform an examination because the intestinal walls will be covered with blood, so the field of view is cleaned with special washing systems. Colonoscopy does not only observe; as soon as the bleeding vessel is found, the vessel can be cauterized with thin instruments passed through the device, clips can be placed on it, or medication can be injected to stop the bleeding immediately.<\/p>\n<p>In minor bleeding close to the anal region that only stains toilet paper, such a long examination may not be needed. In these cases, diagnosis can be made within seconds under outpatient clinic conditions with the help of short, lighted tubes that show only the last few centimeters of the intestine. In cases where intestinal anatomy is not suitable or colonoscopy cannot be fully performed, cameras that can be swallowed in pill form may be given to the patient. These cameras take thousands of photos while moving through the digestive system and image points that cannot be reached. In addition, in cases where bleeding is very rapid, detailed tomographies taken by giving contrast material into the vein or angiography procedures performed by entering directly through the groin are invaluable methods that show the location of the bleeding with pinpoint accuracy.<\/p>\n<p>Methods used for diagnosis and detection are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Colonoscopy<\/li>\n<li>Sigmoidoscopy<\/li>\n<li>Anoscopy<\/li>\n<li>Capsule endoscopy<\/li>\n<li>Tomography<\/li>\n<li>Angiography<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_Hemorrhoid_Problem_Cause_Rectal_Bleeding_and_How_Is_It_Treated\"><\/span>Does Hemorrhoid Problem Cause Rectal Bleeding and How Is It Treated?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Hemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are actually useful structures that exist in human anatomy from birth. On the inner surface of the anal canal, there are cushion-like vascular networks woven like a web. These cushions control the passage of gas and fluid, just as a seal provides leakproofness. However, when intestinal pressure continuously increases due to reasons such as constipation lasting for many years, waiting and straining on the toilet for a long time, heavy lifting, or pregnancy, these sensitive cushions stretch, enlarge, and begin to sag outward from the anus. When hard stool passes through them, these tense and thinned vessels are easily damaged and cause bright, fresh bleeding.<\/p>\n<p>Treatment of this problem depends largely on the stage. In the early stages, when there is only a complaint of bleeding and no prolapse, lifestyle changes can solve the problem from the root. Changing the diet to soften the stool, sitz baths applied to relax the muscles, and ointments that strengthen the vessel wall are extremely successful. However, as the disease progresses, the bleeding vascular packets need to be reduced. Incision-free procedures performed under outpatient clinic conditions, such as cauterization with light or strangulation with rubber bands, are quite effective. In much more advanced cases, when the tissues have completely prolapsed outward and the bleeding cannot be stopped, surgical intervention comes into play. Traditionally, the diseased tissue can be cut out and removed, while in recent years modern methods in which the vessel is entered directly and shrunk with high heat without damaging the tissue have also been frequently preferred.<\/p>\n<p>Methods used in hemorrhoid treatment are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Diet modification<\/li>\n<li>Sitz bath<\/li>\n<li>Suppository<\/li>\n<li>Cream<\/li>\n<li>Band ligation<\/li>\n<li>Sclerotherapy<\/li>\n<li>Laser<\/li>\n<li>Surgery<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_Anal_Fissure_a_Cause_of_Blood_in_the_Stool_and_What_Are_Its_Solutions\"><\/span>Is Anal Fissure a Cause of Blood in the Stool and What Are Its Solutions?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Anal fissure, known as a tear in the anus, refers to tears in the thin layer of skin located just at the exit of the anus, which is incredibly rich in nerve endings. It usually occurs during the forced expulsion of stool that is much harder and bulkier than normal. The most striking feature of this tear is the very sharp pain it creates during defecation, which patients often compare to the feeling of being cut by glass. This pain is accompanied by fresh bleeding that stains the toilet paper.<\/p>\n<p>The anal region is surrounded by a strong involuntary muscle layer. When a tear occurs and pain is felt, this muscle layer contracts severely as a reflex and enters a kind of spasm state. The contraction is so strong that it compresses the capillaries in the area and seriously reduces the blood flow to the skin where the tear is located. Tissues need blood and oxygen to heal; when blood flow decreases, the tear cannot heal. As it cannot heal, the pain continues, and as the pain continues, the contraction increases. This condition is the main vicious cycle that causes the disease to become chronic.<\/p>\n<p>The main logic of treatment is to eliminate this contraction. In newly formed fissures, specially formulated creams that widen the vessels in the area and relax the muscle are used. These creams temporarily relax the muscle, increase blood flow, and allow the body to repair the tear. In stubborn cases where creams are insufficient, toxins injected into this spasming muscle allow the muscle to relax for months. In chronic fissures that do not heal despite all these non-surgical efforts, surgical procedures are performed in which the muscle fibers causing the spasm are permanently relaxed through a tiny incision, and the problem is brought to a definitive solution.<\/p>\n<p>Complaints of anal fissure are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Pain<\/li>\n<li>Burning<\/li>\n<li>Bleeding<\/li>\n<li>Itching<\/li>\n<li>Spasm<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_Anal_Abscess_and_Fistula_Lead_to_Complaint_of_Rectal_Bleeding\"><\/span>Do Anal Abscess and Fistula Lead to Complaint of Rectal Bleeding?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>In the inner parts of the anal region, there are small glands that constantly produce a certain amount of mucus-like fluid to make it easier for stool to slide out. When the thin ducts of these glands opening into the intestine become blocked due to stool particles or bacteria, the fluid inside cannot flow out and the gland becomes infected. The body&#8217;s defense cells rush here, and within a short time, a tense, throbbing, fever-causing swelling filled with pus forms. This structure is called an abscess. When the abscess bursts on its own or is drained with an intervention, dark-colored and foul-smelling bleeding mixed with pus may come from it.<\/p>\n<p>After the abscess is drained, in some patients, an unwanted artificial tunnel forms between the inside of the intestine and the skin outside the anus. This cellular tunnel is called a fistula. A fistula behaves like a pipe open at both ends and occasionally leaks dirty discharge, inflammation, and blood. It is not possible for the fistula to close with medications or creams. Its treatment is carried out with detailed surgical procedures planned according to the anatomical structure of this tunnel and its close relationship with the anal muscles. The goal is to close the inside of the tunnel by burning it with a laser without damaging the muscles or to gradually remove it outward.<\/p>\n<p>Findings seen in cases of abscess and fistula are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Fever<\/li>\n<li>Swelling<\/li>\n<li>Pus<\/li>\n<li>Discharge<\/li>\n<li>Bleeding<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_Intestinal_Pouches_Cause_Us_to_See_Blood_in_the_Stool\"><\/span>Do Intestinal Pouches Cause Us to See Blood in the Stool?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The intestinal wall consists of strong muscle layers that constantly work to push food forward. To nourish these muscle layers, there are arteries that pierce the intestinal wall from the outside inward. These points where the vessels pass through the muscle layer are the weakest places of the intestinal wall. Eating a fiber-poor diet and suffering from constipation for years causes the pressure inside the intestine to rise to very high levels. High pressure pushes the inner surface of the intestine outward through these weak vascular points and leads to the formation of small balloon-like pouches. These pouches are called diverticula.<\/p>\n<p>Over time, the arteries located at the peak of these ballooned pouches become very stretched and thin. As a result of solid wastes passing through the intestine rubbing against these tense vessels or the vessel wall weakening, a sudden tear occurs. Diverticular bleeding usually does not cause any pain or ache. When the patient goes to the toilet, they suddenly experience a high-volume bowel movement filled with blood, usually in a sour cherry color. Although the appearance is extremely frightening, the vessel repairs itself with supportive treatments performed in the hospital environment and limits the bleeding within a few days. In cases that recur continuously or do not stop, the problematic intestinal segment may need to be removed.<\/p>\n<p>Factors associated with pouch bleeding are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Constipation<\/li>\n<li>Pressure<\/li>\n<li>Aging<\/li>\n<li>Inactivity<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Are_Vascular_Dilatations_in_Advanced_Ages_a_Cause_of_Rectal_Bleeding\"><\/span>Are Vascular Dilatations in Advanced Ages a Cause of Rectal Bleeding?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The aging process directly affects the capillaries that carry blood to the intestines, just as it affects all tissues in the human body. As age advances, especially the small blood vessels in the initial parts of the large intestine lose their elasticity. These vessels, which should normally be in the form of a smooth tube, widen, become tangled, and turn into fragile structures with extremely thin walls. This anatomical deterioration is called angiodysplasia.<\/p>\n<p>These vessels are so fragile that even normal contractions during bowel movements can cause them to bleed. Blood thinner pills, which are frequently used especially in advanced ages to prevent heart attacks, reduce the risk of stroke, or relieve rheumatic pain, suppress the clotting ability of these vessels. Thus, continuous mild, leakage-type bleeding occurs from the vessels. These bleedings generally do not change the color of the stool, but in the long term they create unexplained weakness in the patient and a deep picture of anemia in laboratory tests.<\/p>\n<p>Common findings in vascular dilatation bleeding are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Leakage<\/li>\n<li>Anemia<\/li>\n<li>Fatigue<\/li>\n<li>Paleness<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_Seeing_Blood_in_the_Stool_Be_a_Sign_of_Colon_Cancer\"><\/span>Can Seeing Blood in the Stool Be a Sign of Colon Cancer?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Any bleeding cell seen with the naked eye in the stool or detected in the laboratory is medically a warning sign that must be approached with great care. The correct approach is to first eliminate the possibility of a malignant tumor rather than assuming that this bleeding is simple hemorrhoid bleeding. Large intestine cells constantly renew themselves; copying errors that occur in the genetic code of cells during this renewal lead to the formation of small, skin-tag-like protrusions called polyps on the intestinal wall.<\/p>\n<p>These polyps are initially completely benign and cause no complaints. However, they carry the potential to silently grow over the years and transform into cancer cells. As growing polyps or tumors extend into the intestinal cavity, they rub against the stool passing through and the sensitive tissue on them is damaged and begins to bleed. In addition to bleeding, sudden changes in the patient&#8217;s toilet habits, stool becoming pencil-thin, rapid weight loss despite not dieting, or feeling constantly tired are alarm bells that increase the seriousness of the condition. When these warning bells are heard, regardless of age, it is vitally important to immediately scan the inside of the intestine in detail.<\/p>\n<p>Alarm symptoms carrying suspicion of cancer are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Bleeding<\/li>\n<li>Weight loss<\/li>\n<li>Weakness<\/li>\n<li>Diarrhea<\/li>\n<li>Constipation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_Should_Undergo_Stool_Blood_Testing_and_Cancer_Screenings\"><\/span>Who Should Undergo Stool Blood Testing and Cancer Screenings?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The most reliable way to fight malignant diseases is to catch the disease during those silent years when it has not yet caused symptoms or even bleeding. The transformation of a polyp into cancer requires an average period of ten years. This long period offers physicians a unique window of opportunity to completely prevent the disease. The only way to take advantage of this opportunity is through regular screening tests.<\/p>\n<p>Even individuals who have no family history of cancer and are completely healthy and have no complaints should be included in these screening programs when they reach the age of fifty. Stool samples are taken from people in this age group at certain intervals to look for invisible blood cells, and the inside of the intestine is examined with camera systems at certain periods. However, if the patient has a history of bowel cancer in first-degree relatives, these screenings are started at much earlier ages and in a much more detailed way. Those who have previously had polyps removed or individuals with chronic inflammatory bowel diseases are also considered at risk and placed in special follow-up programs.<\/p>\n<p>Groups evaluated according to risk factor are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Advanced age<\/li>\n<li>Genetics<\/li>\n<li>Polyps<\/li>\n<li>Inflammations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_Which_Cases_of_Rectal_Bleeding_Is_Emergency_Surgical_Intervention_Required\"><\/span>In Which Cases of Rectal Bleeding Is Emergency Surgical Intervention Required?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The vast majority of patients who present to the hospital with the complaint of bleeding regain their health without going to the operating table, through serums, medications, or small interventions performed during endoscopy. However, in a very small group of patients, the bleeding is so severe or has damaged the intestine so much that the only way to save the patient&#8217;s life is to urgently take them to the operating room and open the abdominal region.<\/p>\n<p>If blood pressure cannot be raised despite liters of fluid being given through the vein and units of fresh blood being transfused, and if the cells are becoming oxygen-deprived and moving toward a state of shock, the surgical decision is made quickly. In addition, if bleeding starts again and again despite finding and cauterizing the bleeding vessel with camera systems, or if a much more fatal problem such as intestinal perforation accompanies the bleeding, surgery is inevitable. The basic logic in surgery is to cut out and remove only that problematic intestinal segment if it is known exactly where the bleeding is coming from. However, if the location of the bleeding cannot be found with any test and the patient is about to be lost, almost the entire large intestine is removed from the body to reduce the risk to zero.<\/p>\n<p>Conditions requiring emergency surgery are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Shock<\/li>\n<li>Resistant bleeding<\/li>\n<li>Perforation<\/li>\n<li>Obstruction<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_Rare_Intestinal_Diseases_Cause_Blood_in_the_Stool\"><\/span>Which Rare Intestinal Diseases Cause Blood in the Stool?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Apart from common diseases, there are also some special conditions that damage intestinal tissue through different mechanisms and cause bleeding. For example, a picture in which the intestine cannot be nourished may occur as a result of a sudden clot forming in the main arteries carrying blood from the heart to the intestine or an excessive drop in blood pressure. Just like a heart attack, this condition, which is also a crisis of the intestine, causes cells to die rapidly and the inner surface of the intestine to shed, leading to bloody diarrhea.<\/p>\n<p>Another special condition is the problems encountered in later years by patients receiving cancer treatment. High-dose radiation beams given for the treatment of organs in the pelvic region can leave permanent damage to the vessels in the anal region even years later. These damaged vessels can crack on their own and cause persistent bleeding that lasts for many years. In addition, severe poisoning and infection pictures caused by very strong bacteria taken from outside or spoiled foods can also abrade the intestinal wall like sandpaper and cause a mucus-like, inflamed, and bloody discharge.<\/p>\n<p>Rare causes of bleeding are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Ischemia<\/li>\n<li>Radiotherapy<\/li>\n<li>Bacteria<\/li>\n<li>Poisonings<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Should_Be_Considered_After_Treatment_for_Blood_in_the_Stool_or_Rectal_Bleeding\"><\/span>What Should Be Considered After Treatment for Blood in the Stool or Rectal Bleeding?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Whether it is an anal fissure treated with a simple cream or a vascular dilatation cauterized with camera devices, after the medical treatment process is successfully completed, a large part of the work remains for the patient to change their lifestyle. The greatest enemy of vascular problems and irritations in the digestive system is hard and dry stool passing through that area with difficulty. The way to eliminate this mechanical injury is to make intestinal function suitable for its nature.<\/p>\n<p>In order for stool to remain soft inside the intestine, be bulky, and move easily without rubbing against the wall, the patient needs to renew their diet from top to bottom. It is essential not to omit vegetable-based foods that are very rich in fiber from the table. In order for these fibers to swell like a sponge and fulfill their function, consuming a high amount of water throughout the day is a vital necessity. Sitting on the toilet for long minutes and spending time with a phone or magazine puts enormous pressure on the vessels in the area due to the effect of gravity; therefore, the time spent on the toilet should be kept to a minimum, and the urge to defecate should never be postponed. Taking regular walks and living a physically active life also allows bowel movements to gain a natural rhythm and minimizes the risk of bleeding occurring again.<\/p>\n<p>Habits that should be acquired after treatment are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Vegetable consumption<\/li>\n<li>Drinking water<\/li>\n<li>Walking<\/li>\n<li>Quick toilet use<\/li>\n<li>Fiber supplement<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Blood in the stool and rectal bleeding are the clearest signs of lower digestive system diseases such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, intestinal polyps, or colon cancer. This condition, which may present as bright red fresh blood, clots in a sour cherry color, or black, tar-like melena, may be accompanied by abdominal pain, changes in defecation [&#8230;]\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":2848,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[39,14],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2850","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-general","category-general-surgery"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2850","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2850"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2850\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2855,"href":"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2850\/revisions\/2855"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2848"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2850"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2850"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ebruayvazoglu.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2850"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}