Blood in stool and toilet paper

[Airtrip]

I have had bloody stools the last two weeks and I’m very worried I have been using preparation h and it does seem to help stop the bleeding that shows up on the toilet paper after each bowle movement and in the stool I have scheduled a colonoscopy and I’m very worried about it

[Pipinha]

Hello you made blood tests? How is your blood stool?

[mondlee6248]

You passing blood in stool is sudden or do you have other symptoms as well

[Nicole_GCCA Partner]

Hello Airtrip ,

I'm sorry to hear about your symptoms and the anxiety that they are causing you. It sounds like you are under the care of a gastroenterologist if you have a colonoscopy scheduled, is that correct?

Did the doctor perform a digital rectal exam on you, where they would use their fingers to feel and inspect the rectum and anus for any tears, or hemorrhoids?

It is very common to feel anxious when you see blood in your stool, it is scary to see. Also, if you have never had a colonoscopy, you may be worried about the procedure itself, or about what results they may find, and that is also normal.

Since you have a colonoscopy scheduled, the best thing you can do now is to put your energy into making sure that you are prepared to take the "prep" medicine in advance of your colonoscopy so that the doctor can have a clear view of your colon.

We've put together some tips as well as a link to a great guide that Kaiser Permanente created on foods to avoid eating in the days leading up to a colonoscopy. This will help ensure that your bowel preparation is at a level that your doctor has a clear view of your colon.

1. Once you get the prescription for the prep that you'll drink, follow your doctor's instructions exactly. Your doctor may give you a prescription, or they may tell you the name of a specific over-the-counter laxative to purchase.

You want to have the cleanest colon for the doctor to be able to see everything with no fecal matter obscuring the way. We like this tool that Kaiser Permanente put together (with drawings!) that shows food to avoid and foods to eat leading up to when you actually start drinking the prep: healthy.kaiserpermanente.or...

2. Get prepared to prep! Many people say the prep is the worst part of the colonoscopy procedure as a whole. Depending on what your doctor prescribes, it may be a lot of the same drink with the medication mixed in (such as Gatorade) vs. a smaller volume of prep that you drink, and then separately drink a certain amount of liquid of your choice (excluding something like a red Gatorade which could stain your colon for the test).

a. In addition to picking up your prescription, buy yourself some supplies:

*Toilet paper (necessary!)

*Wet wipes (never flush wipes even if they say flushable, the last thing you want is a clogged toilet when you are in the midst of prepping for a colonoscopy),

*Magazines

b. While you are going through prep, many treat themselves to buying a movie or series they've been wanting to see.

3. If during your prep you have any concerns or don't feel well (nauseous, etc.) call your doctor to let them know what is going on.

4. You will likely be required to have a family member or friend drive you home (you can not drive for the rest of the day), most places won't want you taking a taxi or Uber home alone. Bringing a family member or friend who can take notes on what the doctor tells you when you are in the recovery area will be key - many people report that they don't remember the post-colonoscopy conversation with the doctor very well.

Good luck and please keep us posted. We'll be thinking of you and hoping for good news.

~Nicole, GCCA Staff Member & Colon Cancer Connected Site Administrator.

Just a reminder - this group is here to offer support, share experiences, and offer our thoughts - but this is not medical advice, and you should always consult your medical professional(s). Additionally, for all emergencies, seek urgent medical care, never delay.