Blood in Stool: Causes and Treatment Options
Learn about the possible causes of blood in stool and available treatment options. Understand when to seek medical help and how this symptom is managed effectively.
Written by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula
Reviewed by Dr. Md Yusuf Shareef MBBS
Last updated on 3rd Sep, 2025
Noticing blood in your stool can be alarming, but it’s important to stay calm and understand what might be causing it. While some causes are minor and easily treatable, others may require medical attention. This article will help you understand the possible reasons, symptoms to watch for, and when to seek help.
What Does Blood in Stool Mean?
Blood in stool (also called rectal bleeding) can appear in different ways:
Bright red blood – Usually comes from the lower digestive tract (rectum or anus).
Dark, tarry stools (melena) – Indicates bleeding higher up in the digestive system (stomach or small intestine).
Blood mixed with stool – Could be due to inflammation, infections, or other conditions.
Even a small amount of blood should not be ignored, as it may signal an underlying issue.
Consult a Top Specialist
Common Causes of Blood in Stool
Below are a few common causes of blood in stool,
1. Hemorrhoids (Piles)
What are they? Swollen veins in the rectum or anus.
Why does it bleed? Straining during bowel movements or passing hard stools can cause bleeding.
Symptoms: Itching, pain, and bright red blood on toilet paper or stool.
2. Anal Fissures
What is it? A small tear in the lining of the anus.
Why does it bleed? Usually caused by constipation or passing large, hard stools.
Symptoms: Sharp pain during bowel movements and bright red blood.
3. Gastroenteritis or Infections
What causes it? Bacterial or viral infections (like Salmonella, E. coli).
Why does it bleed? Inflammation in the intestines can lead to bloody diarrhea.
Symptoms: Diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, and sometimes fever.
4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Includes: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Why does it bleed? Chronic inflammation damages the digestive tract lining.
Symptoms: Diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, and fatigue.
5. Peptic Ulcers
What are they? Sores in the stomach or small intestine lining.
Why does it bleed? Stomach acid or infections (like H. pylori) can cause ulcers to bleed.
Symptoms: Burning stomach pain, bloating, and dark, tarry stools.
6. Diverticulosis
What is it? Small pouches form in the colon wall.
Why does it bleed? If these pouches get inflamed or rupture, they can bleed.
Symptoms: Sudden, painless bleeding (often bright red).
7. Colon Polyps or Cancer
What are they? Abnormal growths in the colon (polyps can turn cancerous).
Why does it bleed? Polyps or tumors may bleed as they grow.
Symptoms: Blood in stool, changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss.
When Should You See a Doctor?
While minor bleeding from hemorrhoids or fissures may resolve on its own, you should seek medical attention if you notice:
Persistent or heavy bleeding
Dark, tarry stools (could indicate stomach bleeding)
Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
Severe abdominal pain
Blood in stool lasting more than a few days
Early diagnosis can help treat serious conditions like colon cancer effectively.
Diagnosis: How Is the Cause Determined?
Your doctor may recommend tests such as:
Stool test – Checks for infections or hidden blood.
Colonoscopy – Examines the entire colon for polyps, inflammation, or tumors.
Sigmoidoscopy – Looks at the lower part of the colon.
Endoscopy – Checks the stomach and upper digestive tract.
Imaging tests (CT scan, X-ray) – Helps detect structural issues.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the cause:
1. For Hemorrhoids & Anal Fissures
Increase fiber intake (fruits, vegetables, whole grains).
Drink plenty of water to soften stools.
Use over-the-counter creams or ointments.
Warm sitz baths can help relieve pain.
2. For Infections
Antibiotics (if bacterial) or antiviral medications.
Stay hydrated and rest.
3. For IBD (Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis)
Anti-inflammatory medications.
Immune system suppressors.
Dietary changes (avoiding trigger foods).
4. For Peptic Ulcers
Acid-reducing medications (PPIs, H2 blockers).
Antibiotics if H. pylori infection is present.
5. For Diverticulosis or Polyps
High-fiber diet to prevent flare-ups.
Surgical removal if polyps are cancerous or large.
6. For Colon Cancer
Surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation, depending on the stage.
Prevention & Lifestyle Tips
Below are few prevention and lifestyle tips,
Eat a high-fiber diet (whole grains, fruits, vegetables).
Stay hydrated to prevent constipation.
Exercise regularly to improve digestion.
Avoid straining during bowel movements.
Limit alcohol and spicy foods if they trigger symptoms.
Get screened for colon cancer after age 45 (or earlier if at risk).
When to Consult a Doctor?
If you notice blood in your stool, don’t ignore it. Apollo 24|7 makes it easy to consult a gastroenterologist or book a lab test from home. Early diagnosis can prevent complications and ensure proper treatment.
Take Action Now:
Call a doctor if symptoms persist.
Book an online consultation for expert advice.
Schedule a test if needed.
Remember, blood in stool is a symptom, not a disease. Identifying the cause early can help you get the right treatment and maintain good digestive health. Stay informed and take care!
Would you like to speak to a specialist today? Visit Apollo 24|7 for quick and reliable healthcare support.
Final Thoughts
Blood in stool can be a sign of various conditions, ranging from minor issues like hemorrhoids to more serious concerns such as gastrointestinal bleeding or cancer. Identifying the underlying cause through timely medical evaluation is crucial for effective treatment.
Consult a Top Specialist
Consult a Top Specialist
Dr. Sandhya Chandel
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
16 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), IDCCM
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(125+ Patients)
Dr. Harshendra Jaiswal
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS , MD (General medicine)
Kolkata
108 DHANA DHANVANTARI Clinic, Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Swagata Sircar
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
8 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine
Kolkata
HealthYou Speciality Clinic & Diagnostics., Kolkata
Dr. Swarna Deepak K
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
17 Years • MBBS: MD (Internal Medicine) MRCP (UK), EDIC (European Diploma in Critical Care), IDCCM, IFCCM (Critical Care), FID (Royal Liverpool Academy)
Hyderabad
Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
(375+ Patients)
Dr. Sadhna Valluri
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
8 Years • MBBS, DNB family medicine, Fellowship in diabetology, Fellowship in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (AIG)
Hyderabad
S.V. Kidney Care & Sugar Specialist, Hyderabad