Sit-ups are a great form of exercise to work the abdominals, but they also can strain the nearby muscles, tissues and blood vessels, including the rectum. Rectal bleeding is not a condition but rather a symptom of an underlying problem. While most of the time the problem is minor, such as hemorrhoids, rectal bleeding can indicate a more serious problem. For this reason, it's always best to consult a doctor to determine the underlying cause.
Hemorrhoids
According to the University of Maryland, approximately 75 percent of all Americans will experience hemorrhoids in their lifetime. Hemorrhoids are the result of engorged veins in the anal canal or rectum. They are sometimes external and can be seen, but just as often are internal hemorrhoids, hidden from view. In addition to bleeding, they are often painful and itchy. External hemorrhoids can be felt as lumps or seen as protruding veins in extreme cases. They are often caused by sitting for prolonged periods, straining during bowel movements or result from exercise, such as weightlifting, that strains the area. Although they can be treated relatively simply, consult with a doctor to be sure of the diagnosis. In the meantime, soaking in a hot tub and applying hemorrhoid creams can offer relief.
Intestinal Ischemia
Another common cause in athletes is intestinal ischemia, which is a blocking off of the blood supply to the intestines. This is especially true of runners. The damaged tissue that results from the lack of blood is often seen in the form of blood in the stool or bleeding during a bowel movement. There are several variations of ischemia, which typically come with other symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea or abdominal pain. According to Frank Moses, M.D., the situation is not the result of an underlying abnormality and can be treated. Rarely, the problem can be severe enough that the bleeding leads to the need for a transfusion.
Other Causes
Although rectal bleeding is often due to hemorrhoids or milder gastrointestinal problems, other disorders can also have the symptoms of rectal bleeding. According to Mayo Clinic, ulcers of the intestines, anal fissures and polyps, radiation therapy and food poisoning can all lead to rectal bleeding, as can simple cases of constipation. Diseases such as colitis and Crohn's disease also have rectal bleeding as a possible symptom. In some rare cases, cancer of the colon and anus can also cause the issue. The majority of the problems will have other symptoms along with the rectal bleeding, but even the more serious problems such as cancer can have rectal bleeding as the sole symptom.
Considerations
Despite the fact that the many of the common problems of rectal bleeding are relatively benign, such as hemorrhoids and constipation, it is always best to consult a doctor whenever it occurs. Finding the cause will not only allow for the proper treatment, it will also give you peace of mind and reduce the stress of always wondering "what if?" Usually, it's fine to schedule a regular appointment but if you have other symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, confusion, sudden weight loss or severe, continuous bleeding, contact a physician immediately as these symptoms can be signs of internal hemorrhaging.
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