BLOOD IN STOOL FREAKING OUT

[glee2470]

Is this a cause for concern? 19 F, never had blood in stool before. please help

[Martinmartin]

Hi, it appears scary for the first time, doesn't it? Yet, it is an extremly casual issue. The red flag usually comes only with advanced age and/or severity of other symptoms. There is a myriad of other gastro-intestinal diseases but simply rectal bleeding is not sufficient tell-tale sign. The blood means that there is a wound. It is in vast majority a small fissure from constipation/diarrhea straining or a bleeding haemmorhoid. This comes casually after straining too much or eating e.g. chipotle burrito. For many, it comes casually after binge drinking. If you do not have any other persistent and brutal symptoms, the GP will probably prescribe regular over the counter haemmorhoid ointment or suppositories. There will be advice about well-balanced diet, with loads of fibre, plenty of water, movement and avoiding smoking and alcohol.

[glee2470 in reply to Martinmartin]

thank you. I’m getting in contact with my GI doctor but of course this happened over the weekend leaving me to panic for 3 days straight

[CRCAdvocate]

I would advise scheduling an appointment with your healthcare provider. There are many tests available, including FIT, FOBT, Barium Enema, Sigmoidoscopy, Virtual and Traditional Colonoscopy. For additional information on screening, symptoms and prevention, visit: GlobalCCA.org