Rectal Bleeding

Board Certified Gastroenterologist, Hepatologist & Weight Loss Specialist located in Midwood, Brooklyn, NY

Rectal bleeding can be a concerning sign that something is not right with your digestive tract, but there are many causes of rectal bleeding that are not dangerous. While noticing blood in your stool or on toilet paper is often frightening, the most common causes of rectal bleeding are relatively benign and can be treated with little incident. However, there’s still a risk it could be a sign of a serious condition. If you are experiencing rectal bleeding, schedule an appointment with board-certified gastroenterologist Jack Husney on For expert diagnosis and treatment, call or schedule an appointment online today.

Rectal Bleeding Q & A

What is rectal bleeding?

Any time blood exits the anus, it is considered rectal bleeding. However, the term usually implies that the colon, and specifically the last few inches of the colon, the rectum, are the source of the bleeding.

You may notice rectal bleeding because of blood mixed with stool, blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl. The blood will usually be bright red, but can also appear dark and tarry or maroon colored.

What causes rectal bleeding?

Anal fissures and hemorrhoids are the two most common sources of rectal bleeding. Anal fissures are small tears in the anus, and can have a variety of causes. Hemorrhoids are inflamed blood vessels near the anus, which can be uncomfortable or painful. While neither is usually dangerous, many people prefer to seek treatment because of the unpleasant symptoms they cause.

Less frequently, rectal bleeding can also be a symptom of:

Anal cancer
Angiodysplasia, a condition that affects blood vessels near the intestines
Colon cancer or polyps
Crohn’s disease
Diarrhea
Diverticulosis or diverticulitis
Ischemic colitis
Proctitis
Pseudomembranous colitis
Side effects of radiation therapy
Rectal cancer
Ulcers of the rectum
Ulcerative colitis

These are much less common conditions, but they’re also more serious and dangerous, so rectal bleeding should not be ignored.

When should I see a doctor about rectal bleeding?

Any time you experience rectal bleeding, you should see Dr. Husney for an exam. While most bleeding is caused by relatively benign conditions like hemorrhoids, there’s still a risk that it could be a symptom of a serious inflammatory disease or cancer, so an exam helps these potential causes out. If your bleeding is simply caused by hemorrhoids or anal fissures, Dr. Husney provides treatment to manage and relieve your symptoms as well.

Sometimes your bleeding may be accompanied by symptoms like:

Hyperventilation
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Blurred vision
Fainting
Confusion
Nausea
Cold, clammy or pale skin

If you experience any of these in conjunction with rectal bleeding, seek emergency medical attention.

To make an appointment if you are suffering from rectal bleeding, call the office of Jack Husney, MD, or schedule an appointment online today.