Blood in the stool is alarming. It's often due to an injury or disorder of the digestive tract. Appearance of blood in the stool can range from bright red to black and can originate from any part of the digestive tract, according to the University Of Maryland Medical Center. It may not be visible if present in a very small quantity but can be detected with a fecal occult blood test. Treatment of blood in the stool depends on its cause.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, includes disorders that are characterized by chronic or recurring inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are the most common IBDs. An abnormal immune system response is responsible for both disorders. The immune system attacks the cells of the intestines and causes chronic inflammation. Crohn's disease can affect any area of the intestines. Symptoms include loose, watery and frequent bowel movements, weight loss, loss of appetite, abdominal cramping and rectal bleeding. Ulcerative colitis affects the colon and is characterized by loose, bloody stools, painful abdominal cramping, fever and nausea.
Colon Cancer
Colon cancer affects the large intestine. Symptoms can include blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits including diarrhea or constipation, unexpected weight loss, vomiting, tiredness, gas pains, bloating and stools that are narrower than normal, the National Cancer Institute says. Blood in the stool may not be visible. Colonoscopy, a test that exams the intestines using a scope, and a fecal occult blood test are recommended to screen people for colon cancer after age 50, or sooner if risk factors are present. Report colon cancer symptoms promptly to a physician.
Bacterial Gastroenteritis
Commonly known as food poisoning, bacterial gastroenteritis occurs when bacteria infect the stomach and intestines, causing inflammation and illness. Bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella and Shigella can originate from undercooked meat and eggs and improper hand washing, according to the National Institutes of Health website, Medline Plus. Symptoms include abdominal pain and cramping, nausea and vomiting and bloody diarrhea. Bacterial gastroenteritis can be particularly dangerous for elderly people, infants and young children, and those with immune system disorders.
Diverticulosis
Diverticulosis is characterized by many balloon-like sacs located in the large intestine, according to Merck Manual. Diverticula are thought to be caused by spasms of the intestinal walls that cause bulging at weak points. The cause of the spasms is believed to be a low-fiber diet. Diverticulosis usually causes no symptoms, although blood in the stool, bleeding from the rectum or painful cramping can occur. Complications include inflammation and infection of the diverticula, called diverticulitis, and heavy bleeding. Treatment focuses on reducing intestinal spasms with a diet high in fiber, adequate fluid intake and use of bulking agents.
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids, inflamed and swollen blood vessels in the rectum and anus, can result from pregnancy or straining to have a bowel movement, MayoClinic.com says. Hemorrhoids are very common, affecting half of all adults in the U.S. The most common sign is bleeding during a bowel movement. Other signs include blood on toilet tissue, anal swelling, itching or irritation, a swollen vein protruding from the rectum, swelling around the anus or leakage of stool. Possible treatments include lifestyle changes, medications and surgery, depending on the severity.
