ColoWell America | Proctology and Aesthetics Care

Let’s talk about something that might seem a bit uncomfortable but is super important: your bowel health. Many colorectal issues can be sneaky and might not show symptoms until they hit hard, such as Hemorrhoids. That’s why it’s a good idea to pay attention to your bowel movements—it’s a simple way to keep track of your health. After all, while we can’t always see what’s happening inside our bodies, we can certainly notice what’s coming out.

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The Red Flag: Blood in Your Stool

One common sign that something might be off is noticing blood in your stool. If you do see this, don’t panic! Instead, have an open conversation with your doctor. Being proactive about your health is key to living a longer, happier life. So don’t shy away from those potentially awkward discussions; they could make a big difference for you. 

Who to Talk To

If you find yourself in this situation, your first stop should be a colorectal or gastrointestinal specialist. You can save time and money by going straight to the expert instead of waiting for your primary care doctor. A specialist can not only diagnose your condition but also offer tailored treatment options, whether you need something non-surgical or surgical.

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Let's Hear from Dr. Shiraz Farooq

Below, Dr. Shiraz Farooq answers most frequently asked questions that will help shed light on what to do if you notice blood during bowel movements.

‘From A Patient’s Perspective, Seeing Blood Can Be Terrifying. What Should I Do? Should I Be Worried About Blood In My Stool?’

Absolutely! Blood in your stool is concerning. For many, it’s a painless event, maybe just a few drops or some smears that turn the toilet bowl red and scary. For others, blood might be part of their daily experience due to ongoing inflammation in their gastrointestinal tract, which can lead to bloody diarrhea. Regardless of the situation, it’s crucial to reach out to a specialist to identify the underlying cause.

‘Is Bleeding During A Bowel Movement Ever Normal? What Does Blood In Stool Indicate?’

The short answer is NO! blood in your stool is never normal. It usually indicates that something is going on in the lining of your colon or rectum, like inflammation or injury. Common causes include hemorrhoids, anal fissures, colitis, gastroenteritis (inflamed gut), or even colon cancer. It’s best to let a specialist make the call on what might be happening.

‘Are There Any Specific Foods I Should Avoid Or Include In My Diet To Help Prevent Bleeding?’

You might wonder if your diet plays a role in preventing bleeding. While certain foods alone can’t cure or cause your condition, it’s wise to steer clear of irritants like alcohol and caffeine. Additionally, limit the use of aspirin and other NSAIDs. Instead, focus more on including plenty of fiber in your meals. Think whole grains, fruits, and veggies—these can help keep your stools soft and digestive system happy. As I like to say, “Two apples a day keeps the proctologist away!”

‘I Am Bleeding Heavily When I Poop. What Other Symptoms Might I Spot?’

If you’re experiencing bleeding, keep an eye out for other common symptoms, such as discomfort in the anal area, pain while sitting, abdominal pain, or changes in bowel habits like constipation or diarrhea.

‘Does Constipation Cause Rectal Bleeding?’

While constipation itself doesn’t directly cause bleeding, the straining to pass large hard stools can lead to occasional blood on toilet paper or in the bowl. A lack of exercise, immobility, and insufficient water intake can worsen constipation symptoms. If you find yourself dealing with chronic constipation, it’s not normal and it’s definitely time to consult a proctologist.

‘Can Stress Lead To Bloody Stool Too?’

Stress is not the cause rather an aggravating factor in any pre-existing conditions, leading to worse symptoms, including bleeding. Physiological effects of stress like bloating, cramping and indigestion act as irritants to your lower digestive tract leading to increased blood in stools.

‘How Does Dehydration Contribute To Bloody Stool?’

Dehydration paired with a low-fiber diet can result in straining during bowel movements, which might exacerbate conditions like hemorrhoids and may cause rectal bleeding while defecating.

‘Does Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Cause Anal Bleeding?’

If you’re dealing with IBS, you might be wondering about the connection to anal bleeding. Generally speaking, IBS doesn’t cause blood in your stool. Instead, it often brings along symptoms like diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, bloating, cramping, and gas. If you do notice bleeding while managing your IBS, it’s a good idea to consult a gastrointestinal specialist. They can help you uncover the cause and get you back on track.

‘Can Your Liver Be The Reason For Blood In Your Stool?’

When it comes to liver health, issues can sometimes fly under the radar until they become serious. An unhealthy liver may not show symptoms until it reaches a point of chronic liver failure, and in such cases, blood in the stool can occur as a related symptom.

‘How Long Should I Wait Before Seeing A Doctor If I Notice Blood While Using The Bathroom?’

Why wait? If symptoms are present, it likely means there has been an underlying issue hidden for some time. Your health should always come first. Blood won’t just go away on its own, so take charge and get it checked out.

‘Will The Bleeding Come Back?’

That really depends on your individual situation. A colorectal specialist can guide you on what to expect moving forward. In general, drinking more water, increasing your fiber intake, and avoiding straining during bowel movements can help sufficiently.

Bottom line

Don’t hesitate to reach out to a proctologist for any issues, from hemorrhoids to screenings. Dr. Farooq and his team at ColoWell America are there to save your butt!

They specialize in nutrition counseling and cutting-edge treatments for hemorrhoids, including Rubber Band Ligation.

If you’re in Tampa and looking for a caring, board-certified colorectal specialist, give them a call at 813-278-6430. 

Stay safe and keep an eye on your butt and gut health!

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Discover When To Seek Help!

At ColoWell America, we understand that experiencing bleeding hemorrhoids can be both overwhelming and alarming. Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing personalized care that addresses your unique symptoms and needs. If you’re noticing persistent bleeding, it’s essential to seek help. Bleeding from hemorrhoids may indicate more severe complications, and timely intervention can prevent further discomfort and health issues.

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