Rectal bleeding

[Jaggie21]

Ive been on Apixaban for a couple of years with no problem. This week I started noticing dark red blood in my poos! No pain anywhere - but known to have haemorrhoids which occassionally show streaks od bright red blood. I read that apixaban can cause bleeding - anyone else had the problem?

[Buffafly]

Dark red blood means a visit to your GP asap! Anticoagulants can ‘reveal’ a bleeding problem but do not actually cause it.

[Jaggie21 in reply to Buffafly]

Planning to ring for GP appointment tomorrow!!

[Jajarunner]

Doctor! Asap. Probably just piles but needs checking 🙏

[BobD Volunteer]

See your doctor asap. Whilst they do not casue bleeding, anticoagulants can save lives by showing up potential problems long before they would otherwise be found.

[Karendeena]

I, very occasionally, have a streak of bright red blood and I am on apixaban. I would be more concerned of black blood in stools as this is coming from higher up the intestinal tract and would require more investigation.Have you had a FIT test?

[Borderterriorist]

I had a positive FIT test (blood in poo) and am currently being investigated. Yes, you definitely need to see your GP but apixaban can cause GI bleeding and it's not that uncommon especially if we are older. I've got a CT virtual colonoscopy on Thursday to check me out, until I have the results of that I'm trying not to worry. Hopefully you've contacted your GP today. Best wishes.

[Borderterriorist]

"Rectal bleeding is a prevalent adverse effect in elderly patients taking blood thinners. Managing these patients can be challenging because of the scarcity of available guidance on the use of reversal agents and the decision to restart medication. Anticoagulant therapy is a major risk factor for rectal bleeding." From NIH website

[Ppiman]

This will almost certainly be from a diverticulum, which one of probably several small sacs that form as we get older in the large bowel. The bowel wall is very vascular meaning these can easily bleed, and often do. Only a doctor can ascertain this.

Steve

[MacGrumphy]

I've been hospitalised five times over the last three years with rectal bleeding – and there is a lot of blood. I have been diagnosed with extensive Diverticulitis and Apixaban is reckoned to be the cause of the bleeding, so I stop Apixaban immediately. However, I don't feel the least bit unwell during these incidents. I phone the colorectal department of our local hospital and I am admitted until the bleeding stops. Usually a couple of days.