Zinc is one of the essential trace elements the human body needs in small amounts to maintain proper health. Supplements containing zinc are used to treat a variety of health conditions and to prevent zinc deficiency. While zinc supplements are generally safe and well-tolerated, large doses may cause side effects. Consult your doctor before taking zinc supplements.
Rectal Bleeding
Overdosing on zinc may cause several gastrointestinal side effects, but rectal bleeding is not frequently reported as one of them, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements of the National Institutes of Health. Rectal bleeding may be a sign of serious health conditions such as polyps, an intestinal blockage or colon cancer. Visit a doctor immediately if you experience rectal bleeding.
Treatment with Zinc
Zinc is actually used as a treatment for mild rectal disorders, such as rectal itching, reports the American Institute for Preventive Medicine. Over-the-counter ointments containing zinc oxide are commonly recommended for treating hemorrhoids and other conditions causing rectal itching. Consult a doctor before attempting to treat rectal disorders with zinc products.
Side Effects
Zinc toxicity can cause several rapidly occurring gastrointestinal symptoms. Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain are often early signs of zinc toxicity, explains the Office of Dietary Supplements of the NIH. Headache, dizziness, drowsiness, profuse sweating, hallucinations and loss of muscle control are also symptoms of zinc toxicity, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Chronic Symptoms
Long-term ingestion of excess zinc may lead to chronic side effects. A common result of chronic zinc toxicity is a copper deficiency, the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University reports. Reductions in iron activity are also possible, which may lead to anemia. Decreased immune function has also been reported, as have decreases in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, also known as HDL, or "good" cholesterol, explains the Office of Dietary Supplements.
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