Most people assume that if they see blood in the toilet, they have hemorrhoids but the truth is, abnormal anal bleeding could be caused by a number of things. Don’t assume that you burst a hemorrhoid or sat on the toilet too long. If your symptoms disappear within a few days, it could just be a fissure but if they last longer than a week or get worse, see a doctor. Waiting too long to seek medical advice could be the difference between life and death. Below is a list of just some of the causes of anal bleeding according to the Mayo Clinic.
Colon Cancer
Colon cancer affects the large intestine (also known as the colon) and the rectum – the last six inches of the colons. If you have both, it is called colorectal cancer. Most cases start as benign polyps so don’t assume a polyp is nothing to be concerned about. Over time they can grow and become malignant. Most patients with colon cancer are over the age of 50 but that does mean anyone under the age of 50 is exempt.
Symptoms
Abdominal pain that does not go away
Feeling like you have not completely emptied your bowels
Bleeding from your return or blood in your stool
A change in your regular bowel routine (e.g. constipation, diarrhea, an increase or decrease of stool)
Weight loss with no explanation
Diagnosis
The first thing your doctor will do is check your stool. More intrusive tests include a barium enema, a sigmoidoscopy or a colonoscopy where a long flexible scope with a camera will be used to look for signs of abnormality.
Treatment
The best treatment is prevention. Consume more fiber and water. Eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables and avoid fatty foods like processed meat. Reduce the amount of alcohol you consume, quit smoking, and lose weight if you are obese.
Surgery which includes the removal of part of your colon
Chemotherapy
Radiation
Anal Cancer
The short tube at the end of your rectum where the stool leaves the body is the anal canal. There are not always symptoms associated with anal cancer which is part of the reason why anal cancer is on the rise. According to the Mayo Clinic, engaging in anal sex, people over the age of 50, multiple sexual partners, HPV, and smoking may all contribute to anal cancer.
Symptoms
Pain in the anus
Anal itching
Anal bleeding
A growth in the anus
Diagnosis
Though embarrassing, the fist diagnostic test is the digital rectal exam. A doctor may also inspect your anus using an anoscope which is a short lighted tube, or perform an anal sonogram which involves a probe. Lastly, a tissue sample may be taken for a biopsy.
Treatment
Radiation
Chemotherapy
Surgery
Crohn’s Disease
One kind of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is Crohn’s. This is where the digestive tract lining becomes inflamed. Some cases are hereditary and Jewish populations descending from Europe are especially at risk. Other contributing facts are smoking and the use of Accutane.
Symptoms
Blood in the stool
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain or cramping
Unexplained weight loss
Decreased appetite
Diagnosis
A doctor will often perform a blood test to check for anemia. Other diagnostic tests are a barium enema, a signmoidoscopy or a colonoscopy.
Treatment
Antibiotics
Supplements
Prescription anti-inflammatory medication
Immune system suppressors
Anti-diarrheal drugs
Surgery as a last resort if the above do not work
Polyps
Polyps affect more men than women, especially those with a family history. Other risk factors include smoking, consuming alcohol, obesity, and an unhealthy diet.
Symptoms
Pain
A change in bowel habits
Anal bleeding
Blood in the stool
Diagnosis
Fecal Blood Test
Sigmoidoscopy
Barium Enema
Pill Camera
Colonoscopy
Treatment
Removal using a wire loop and cauterization
Surgery to remove the entire colon and rectum
*Note: The above information is to be used as a reference guide only. If you experience anal bleeding, make an appointment to see your doctor.
**To read more from Bobbi Leder on Associated Content, click here.
