Rectal bleeding can be a worrisome symptom. However, it is important to remember that rectal bleeding is relatively common and is often no cause for alarm. In most cases, rectal bleeding is caused by something that can be easily treated, such as hemorrhoids or an anal fissure. Keep reading to learn more about the potential causes of rectal bleeding and what you can do to treat it.
Welling Homeopathy can help natural, pain-free recovery from all causes of rectal bleeding. See our specialist today for a detailed assessment.
What Causes Rectal Bleeding In Adults?
There are many potential causes of rectal bleeding. Some of the most common include:
Anal Fissures:
An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus or anal canal. This tear can cause bleeding, pain, and itching. Anal fissures are often caused by constipation or passing large, hard stools.
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels that develop in or around the anus and rectum. They can be internal hemorrhoids, which are found inside the rectum, or external hemorrhoids, which are found under the skin around the anus. Both types of hemorrhoids can bleed. External hemorrhoids can also cause pain, itching, and irritation.
Infections:
Infections of the anus or rectum can cause rectal bleeding. These infections include anal fistulas, anal warts, perianal abscesses, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and viral hepatitis.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD):
IBD is a condition that causes inflammation of the digestive tract. The two most common types of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Both conditions can cause rectal bleeding.
Cancer:
Rectal cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the lining of the rectum (the last section of the large intestine). Rectal cancer is relatively rare in adults under age 50 but becomes more common with age. Other types of cancer that can cause rectal bleeding include colon cancer and anal cancer.
Treatment for Rectal Bleeding
Treatment for rectal bleeding depends on its underlying cause. Anal fissures often heal on their own with home care measures such as soaking in a warm bath several times per day and using over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to relieve pain.
Hemorrhoids typically improve with home treatment measures such as increased fiber intake, stool softeners, over-the-counter pain relievers ,and topical creams or ointments.
Infections may be treated with antibiotics if they are caused by bacteria; otherwise they will usually go away on their own.
IBD may require medication to control inflammation as well as dietary changes; some people may also need surgery.
Rectal cancer will require surgery to remove the cancerous tissue; radiation therapy or chemotherapy may also be necessary depending on how advanced the cancer is.
When to See a Doctor in Rectal Bleeding?
If you have any concerns about rectal bleeding , make an appointment with a gastroenterologist or our Homeopathy specialist for pain-free recovery. If you have any other symptoms along with your rectal bleeding including severe abdominal pain; bloody stools; black, tarry stools; weight loss; fatigue; or fever , see our doctor right away as these could be signs of a more serious condition.
Rectal bleeding is relatively common and is often no cause for alarm . In most cases , it is caused by something that can easily be treated at home, such as hemorrhoids or an anal fissure . However, if you experience any other accompanying symptoms or if your bleeding does not go away after a week, see our doctor. These could be signs of a more serious condition.
