Blood in Stool: Causes, Concerns & When to See a Doctor
Noticing blood in your stool can be alarming , but it’s important to understand the possible causes before jumping to conclusions. While in some cases, it may be due to a minor issue like hemorrhoids, in other cases, it could indicate an underlying gastrointestinal (GI) condition that needs medical attention. If you have recently seen blood in your stool, don't ignore it! This guide will help you understand the causes, symptoms, and when to seek medical advice. What Does Blood in Stool Look Like? The appearance of blood in the stool can give clues about its cause: 🔴 Bright red blood : Usually indicates bleeding from the lower digestive tract (rectum, anus, or lower colon). It may appear on toilet paper , in the toilet bowl , or on the surface of the stool . 🔴 Dark red or maroon-colored blood : Suggests bleeding from the upper colon or small intestine . ⚫ Black, tarry stool (Melena) : Indicates bleeding from the stomach or upper GI tract (esophagus, stomach, or duodenu...
