• Published on: Aug 30, 2021
  • 3 minute read
  • By: Secondmedic Expert

When Should You Worry About Blood In Your Stool?

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Have you ever found yourself wondering, "When should you worry about blood in your stool?" This concerning issue, also referred to as rectal bleeding, can be a cause for alarm. Understanding the causes and available treatments is crucial for your health and well-being. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the various aspects of blood in stool, its causes, and effective treatments. Whether you're searching for online doctor consultation or seeking information about the best gastroenterologist, we've got you covered.

Understanding Blood in Stool

Before diving into the causes and treatment options, let's clarify what it means when you notice blood in your stool. Blood in stool, also known as blood in faeces, blood in motion, or blood in potty, refers to the presence of red or black blood in your bowel movements. It can vary in color, consistency, and quantity, making it essential to pay attention to the details.

Common Causes of Blood in Stool

Now, let's explore the various causes of blood in stool. Understanding these reasons for blood in stool will help you identify the underlying issue and take appropriate action.

1. Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids are a common cause of rectal bleeding. These swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus can bleed, especially when passing hard stools.

2. Anal Fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus, known as anal fissures, can lead to blood in stool. They often result from the passage of hard, dry stool.

3. Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Conditions such as ulcers, gastritis, or inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract can cause bleeding. Gastrointestinal bleeding can lead to both red and black blood in stool.

4. Diverticulosis: Diverticulosis occurs when small pouches or sacs develop in the lining of the colon. These sacs can bleed, causing blood in stool.

5. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are types of IBD that can result in bleeding and blood in stool.

6. Colon Polyps and Cancer: Colorectal polyps and cancer can cause rectal bleeding. It is crucial to detect and address these conditions early for effective treatment.

When to Seek Medical Help

Recognizing when to worry about blood in your stool is vital for your health. If you experience any of the following symptoms along with rectal bleeding, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional:

- Prolonged bleeding

- Blood in stool that is black or tarry

- Changes in bowel habits

- Abdominal pain

- Unexplained weight loss

- Family history of colorectal cancer

It's important to remember that rectal bleeding is not always a sign of a severe condition, but timely evaluation is necessary to rule out any underlying problems.

Treatment Options for Blood in Stool

The treatment of blood in stool depends on its underlying cause. Here are some common treatment approaches:

1. Lifestyle Modifications: For cases related to hemorrhoids or anal fissures, making dietary and lifestyle changes can help. These may include increasing fiber intake, drinking more water, and avoiding straining during bowel movements.

2. Medications: Over-the-counter creams, ointments, or suppositories can help alleviate symptoms associated with hemorrhoids and anal fissures.

3. Endoscopy: In cases where gastrointestinal bleeding is suspected, an endoscopy may be performed to diagnose and treat the issue directly.

4. Medication for IBD: If inflammatory bowel disease is the cause of rectal bleeding, a gastroenterologist may prescribe medications to manage the condition.

5. Surgery: In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove polyps or treat colorectal cancer.

6. Regular Screening: Preventive measures, such as regular colorectal cancer screening, can detect and treat potential issues before they become serious.

Online Doctor Consultation and Lab Tests

In the digital age, accessing medical advice and consultations has become more convenient than ever. If you're concerned about blood in your stool, online doctor consultation can provide you with quick answers and guidance. Additionally, online lab tests can be a valuable resource for diagnosing potential issues.

When searching for online doctor consultation or online lab tests, it's crucial to choose a reputable service that offers professional guidance and accurate results. This approach can save you time and provide peace of mind in the face of health concerns.

Finding the Best Gastroenterologist

If your condition requires specialized care, finding the best gastroenterologist is essential. A gastroenterologist is a medical professional with expertise in diagnosing and treating disorders of the digestive system, including those that lead to blood in stool.

To find the best gastroenterologist for your needs, consider the following factors:

- Experience and expertise in gastrointestinal disorders

- Recommendations from your primary care physician or trusted sources

- Patient reviews and testimonials

- Location and convenience

Don't hesitate to seek a second opinion or explore multiple options when choosing a gastroenterologist, as your healthcare is of utmost importance.

In conclusion, blood in stool is a concerning symptom that should not be ignored. Understanding the causes and available treatment options is essential for your health and well-being. Whether it's related to common issues like hemorrhoids and anal fissures or more serious conditions like gastrointestinal bleeding, colorectal polyps, or cancer, timely evaluation and treatment are critical.

If you're worried about blood in your stool, remember that seeking online doctor consultation and using online lab tests can provide you with quick answers and guidance. And if your condition requires specialized care, don't hesitate to find the best gastroenterologist to address your concerns effectively. Your health is invaluable, and taking action when you notice rectal bleeding is the first step towards a healthier future.

Read FAQs


A. The seriousness of blood in stool depends on its cause and accompanying symptoms. Prolonged bleeding, black or tarry stool, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss are warning signs that require immediate medical attention.

A. Any amount of blood in stool should be taken seriously. Even a small amount can be an indicator of underlying issues. It's essential to consult a healthcare professional to determine the cause and severity.

A. Blood in stool may not be serious when it is related to common, benign causes like hemorrhoids or minor anal fissures. However, even in these cases, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider to confirm the diagnosis and receive appropriate guidance.

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How To Relieve Gas Pain

How To Relieve Gas Pain: Simple and Effective Ways

Gas pain is a common problem that almost everyone experiences at some point. It can cause bloating, cramps, and a feeling of pressure in your stomach. While it is usually not serious, gas pain can be uncomfortable and even embarrassing. The good news is that there are many simple ways to find relief quickly.

In this article, we will talk about what causes gas pain, how you can prevent it, and most importantly, how to relieve gas pain naturally and effectively.

What Causes Gas Pain?

Gas pain happens when too much air builds up in your stomach or intestines. Several things can cause this, including:

  • Swallowing air: This can happen when you eat or drink too fast, chew gum, or drink carbonated beverages.
     

  • Eating gas-producing foods: Foods like beans, cabbage, onions, and carbonated drinks can create more gas in your digestive system.
     

  • Digestive disorders: Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), lactose intolerance, or celiac disease can cause excess gas and bloating.
     

  • Changes in gut bacteria: An imbalance in your gut bacteria can lead to more gas production.
     

  • Stress and anxiety: Emotional stress can also affect your digestion and cause gas pain.
     

Understanding what causes your gas pain is the first step to finding relief.

Symptoms of Gas Pain

Common symptoms of gas pain include:

  • Sharp, cramping pains in your stomach or abdomen
     

  • A feeling of pressure or fullness
     

  • Bloating and swelling in the stomach
     

  • Passing gas (flatulence) or burping
     

Sometimes, gas pain can feel so intense that people mistake it for heart problems. If the pain is severe or comes with other symptoms like fever, vomiting, or blood in your stool, it is important to see a doctor.

How To Relieve Gas Pain Quickly

Here are some easy and natural ways to relieve gas pain:

1. Move Around

Physical activity can help your digestive system work better. Taking a short walk after meals can encourage the movement of gas through your intestines and reduce bloating. Gentle exercises like yoga poses such as "wind-relieving pose" are especially good for releasing trapped gas.

2. Apply Heat

Using a heating pad or warm towel on your stomach can relax your muscles and help gas pass more easily. Heat increases blood flow and can provide quick relief from cramping pains.

3. Drink Herbal Tea

Certain herbal teas are excellent for digestion and gas pain relief. Peppermint tea, ginger tea, and chamomile tea are especially effective. They help calm the muscles of the intestines and allow trapped gas to move through.

4. Try Gentle Abdominal Massage

Massaging your abdomen in a clockwise direction can stimulate your intestines and help gas move through your system. Use gentle, circular motions and a little bit of pressure for a few minutes.

5. Use Over-the-Counter Remedies

There are several over-the-counter medicines that can help relieve gas pain. Products like simethicone (Gas-X) can break up gas bubbles and make them easier to pass. Always follow the instructions and consult a doctor if you have any concerns.

6. Change Your Eating Habits

How you eat is just as important as what you eat. To prevent swallowing extra air:

  • Eat slowly and chew your food well.
     

  • Avoid drinking through a straw.
     

  • Don't talk while chewing.
     

  • Avoid chewing gum or sucking on hard candies.
     

Eating smaller, more frequent meals can also help ease digestion and reduce gas buildup.

7. Watch What You Eat

Some foods are more likely to cause gas than others. Common culprits include:

  • Beans
     

  • Lentils
     

  • Broccoli
     

  • Cabbage
     

  • Onions
     

  • Carbonated drinks
     

  • Dairy products (for people who are lactose intolerant)
     

You don't have to avoid these foods completely, but try cutting back and see if your symptoms improve.

8. Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water helps move food and waste through your digestive system more easily, reducing the chance of gas buildup. Aim for at least 6-8 glasses of water a day.

9. Manage Stress

Stress can cause digestive problems and make gas pain worse. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or even just taking a few minutes each day to relax and unwind.

When to See a Doctor

Most of the time, gas pain is harmless and goes away on its own. However, you should see a doctor if:

  • Gas pain is severe and doesn't improve
     

  • You have other symptoms like vomiting, fever, or blood in your stool
     

  • You lose weight without trying
     

  • You experience changes in your bowel habits
     

These could be signs of a more serious condition that needs medical attention.

Conclusion

Gas pain can be uncomfortable, but it is usually easy to treat with simple lifestyle changes and natural remedies. Moving your body, drinking herbal tea, applying heat, and making small changes to your diet can make a big difference.

If you’re tired of dealing with discomfort, take action today. Try these tips and feel better fast. And remember, if you're looking for more natural and effective solutions, our complete guide on How To Relieve Gas Pain can help you take control of your digestive health and enjoy life without the bloating and cramps!

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