Rectal bleeding in small amounts can happen to anyone. You may see blood spots on toilet paper or drops of blood in the toilet. Rectal bleeding has many possible causes, from something minor like hemorrhoids to something serious like colon cancer. You may need more tests to find the cause of your bleeding.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
Be safe with medicines. Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Contact your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine. You will get more details on the specific medicines your doctor prescribes.
Do not take blood thinners, aspirin, or other anti-inflammatory medicines, such as naproxen (Aleve) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), without talking to your doctor first.
Do not drink alcohol.
The bleeding may increase your risk for a low red blood cell count (anemia).
Use a stool softener that contains bran or psyllium. You can sprinkle it on foods or stir it into fruit juice. You can also use a product such as Metamucil or Citrucel.
When should you call for help?
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
You passed out (lost consciousness).
You have sudden, severe belly pain.
You vomit blood or what looks like coffee grounds.
Your stools are maroon or very bloody.
Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
You are dizzy or light-headed, or you feel like you may faint.
You have new or worse pain.
You have new or worse bleeding from the rectum.
Your stools are black and look like tar, or they have streaks of blood.
You cannot pass stools or gas.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
Clinical Review Board All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Clinical Review Board All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.
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