Rectal bleeding is a frequent complaint with many athletes, particularly in runners, according to surveys cited by the Walter Reed Army Medical Center. It's often the result of something affecting the last few inches of your gastrointestinal tract, which includes the rectum and colon. Though further research is needed, it appears that more strenuous physical activities can affect the overall function of the large intestines, as well as other areas of the digestive system. When rectal bleeding is accompanied by pain, it's best to consult your doctor.
Ischemic Colitis
The rectal bleeding and severe pain you're experiencing during exercise could be the result of ischemic colitis. The physical exertion from exercise can sometimes reduce blood flow to the colon. This then causes the internal lining to shed during a bowel movement, which is the source of the blood. The reduced blood flow also causes inflammation within the affected tissue, leading to lower abdominal pain and tenderness. Treatment usually involves fluids, antibiotics and pain medication. If severe, you may need a surgical procedure to remove a portion of your colon.
Constipation
Surprisingly, the rectal bleeding and pain may be the result of constipation. For some people, more vigorous athletic pursuits can delay solids from emptying your gastrointestinal tract, notes F.M. Moses of the Walter Reed Army Medical Center. The delay then hardens stool, making it more difficult to pass. This can cause the sphincter muscles to stretch and lead to small tears along the skin around your anus. Increasing your fluid intake as well as fiber intake can help treat constipation, allowing the fissure to heal.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is quite common from exercise, which can also cause rectal bleeding and pain. Like hardened stool, diarrhea can lead to small tears along the lining of your anus, which exposes blood vessels and nerve endings and thereby results in pain and blood. Reducing your fiber intake and taking an anti-diarrheal medication usually helps treat the diarrhea, allowing the fissures to heal.
Hemorrhoids
Your bleeding and pain could be caused by hemorrhoids. Any changes in bowel movements, like chronic forms of either constipation or diarrhea, can lead to the development of hemorrhoids. Combining this with the potential friction of the protrusion caused by physical activities can result in irritation and subsequent bleeding and discomfort. Topical creams, warm sitz baths and pain relievers can reduce your discomfort, while lubricating the hemorrhoid before physical activity can cut down on the irritation.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Rectal Bleeding; April 30, 2009
- Running Times: Ask the Coaches -- Rectal Bleeding; Dr. Cathy Fieseler
- Emergency Medicine: Office Management of Common Anorectal Problems; Dr. Lawrence J. Brandt
- MedlinePlus: Ischemic Colitis
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Constipation
- "Sports Medicine"; The Effect of Exercise on the Gastrointestinal Tract; F.M. Moses; March 1990
