Observing blood when passing gas can be concerning. This symptom stems from various underlying causes, ranging from minor issues to conditions requiring prompt medical attention. A medical evaluation is the most reliable way to determine the cause and appropriate course of action.
Common Reasons for Blood
Blood when passing gas indicates lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract bleeding, specifically in the colon, rectum, or anus. Hemorrhoids, swollen veins in the anus or rectum, are a frequent cause, bleeding when irritated and producing bright red blood. These can be internal or external, resulting from straining during bowel movements, pregnancy pressure, or heavy lifting.
Anal fissures are small tears in the anal canal’s lining. They occur due to passing hard stools, causing pain and bright red bleeding, sometimes observed after passing gas or a bowel movement. Diverticulosis, where small pouches form on the intestinal wall, can also lead to bleeding if inflamed (diverticulitis) or if blood vessels within them rupture.
More serious conditions can also cause blood in the stool or around the anus. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), encompassing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, involves chronic digestive tract inflammation causing bleeding. Ulcerative colitis, in particular, can lead to visible blood in the stool due to inflammation and ulcers in the large intestine and rectum.
Colorectal polyps, growths on the colon or rectum lining, can also bleed. While many are harmless, some can develop into cancer, and bleeding can be an early indicator. Colorectal cancer itself can cause bleeding, appearing as bright red, dark red, or even black and tarry stools, depending on location and bleeding rate. Other less common but serious causes include angiodysplasia (abnormal blood vessels) or ischemic colitis (reduced blood flow to the colon).
When to See a Doctor
Consult a healthcare professional whenever blood is observed when passing gas or in the stool, as this symptom can indicate various conditions. Seek medical attention if bleeding is heavy, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Large amounts of blood, continuous bleeding, or significant blood clots warrant immediate medical evaluation.
Certain accompanying symptoms are “red flags” requiring prompt medical attention. These include severe abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, fever, chills, or dizziness. Changes in bowel habits, such as new or persistent diarrhea or constipation, along with bleeding, should also prompt a doctor’s visit. Even small amounts of new or recurring blood should be discussed with a healthcare provider to rule out serious underlying conditions.
How Doctors Diagnose
When evaluating blood around the anus or in stool, healthcare professionals begin with a detailed medical history and physical examination. This includes a digital rectal exam, where a gloved finger checks for rectal abnormalities like hemorrhoids or fissures. Further diagnostic steps depend on initial findings and the patient’s symptoms.
Stool tests, such as the fecal occult blood test (FOBT) or fecal immunochemical test (FIT), are used to detect hidden blood. Blood tests can also check for anemia, a common result of chronic blood loss. Endoscopic procedures are performed to directly visualize the inside of the digestive tract.
A colonoscopy involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera through the rectum to examine the entire large intestine for polyps, inflammation, or other sources of bleeding. A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a similar procedure that examines only the lower part of the colon and rectum. In some cases, if upper GI bleeding is suspected, an upper endoscopy can be recommended. Imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs can also be used if the source of bleeding is not clear or if specific conditions are suspected.
Managing Underlying Conditions
Managing blood observed when passing gas depends on the identified underlying cause. For conditions like hemorrhoids or anal fissures, lifestyle modifications are often recommended. Increasing dietary fiber and fluid intake can help soften stools, reducing straining and promoting healing. Over-the-counter creams or suppositories can alleviate discomfort and support recovery.
For inflammatory bowel diseases, treatment often involves medications aimed at reducing inflammation, such as anti-inflammatory drugs or immunosuppressants, to manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups. If significant blood loss has led to anemia, iron supplements or, in severe cases, blood transfusions can be necessary. Colorectal polyps are removed during a colonoscopy, preventing them from potentially developing into cancer. Surgical intervention can be considered for more severe cases of hemorrhoids, IBD complications, or cancerous growths. Consistent follow-up care with a healthcare professional is important to monitor chronic conditions and ensure the effectiveness of the treatment plan.