Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Common Causes and Symptoms

The primary goal of a doctor is to relieve your immediate symptoms, but it is also imperative that you understand the possible causes and sources of your ailment. Understanding the possible causes of rectal bleeding as well as the solutions, including a colonoscopy, will help you avoid issues in the future when you visit Dr. Moshe Rubin at his office in Manhattan and New York, NY.

Causes of Rectal Bleeding

Rectal bleeding can happen due to anal fissures in the lining of the anal tract. It can also happen due to ulcers or lower intestinal tract polyps that break or strain during bowel movements. Untreated diverticulosis, ulcerative colitis, or colon cancer could cause bleeding as well. Hemorrhoids (which can form both inside and outside of the anus) can also cause rectal bleeding if the swollen veins expand to the point of bursting. The bleeding may appear as bright red fluid (often a lower gastrointestinal issue) or dark, blood-tinged stools (a problem that likely began in the upper intestinal tract).

Rectal Bleeding Solutions

In some cases, rectal bleeding will resolve on its own with some time and doctor-recommended care at home. When bleeding from the rectum is heavy, it is an urgent threat to your health due to the loss of blood cells and iron. Uncontrolled rectal bleeding is often treated by repairing the site of the wound, tear, ulcer, or sac that is the source of the bleeding. Your doctor may recommend ointments and dietary changes for some cases. Rectal bleeding caused by diseases may require surgery or other more aggressive therapies. The exact treatment will depend on the result of an exam and gastrointestinal tests at your Manhattan & New York, NY, gastroenterologist’s office, including a colonoscopy.

How a Colonoscopy Can Help

If a problem in the gastrointestinal tract causes rectal bleeding, your doctor must first perform a colonoscopy. This test allows your doctor to examine your rectum, colon, and intestines to determine the exact source of the bleeding using a small camera. This results in more effective and targeted treatment.

See Your Doctor

Rectal bleeding is understandably a symptom that should cause you concern, so it’s important to have it checked by a doctor as soon as possible. Contact the office of Dr. Moshe Rubin in Manhattan & New York, NY, for a colonoscopy and exam by calling (212) 772-1012.