FRESH BLOOD IN STOOLS VERSUS BLACK STOOLS: CAUSES AND TREATMENT
Fresh Blood in Stool: Also known as hematochezia, is a symptom of gastrointestinal bleeding. The blood is usually bright red and may be accompanied by:
- Rectal pain
- Urgency to have a bowel movement
- Abdominal pain
Causes of Fresh Blood in Stool
- Anal fissures
- Hemorrhoids
- Diverticulitis
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Gastrointestinal cancer
Black Stool: Also known as melena, is a symptom of gastrointestinal bleeding in the upper digestive tract. The blood is usually black and tarry due to digestion.
Causes of Black Stool
- Peptic ulcers
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Gastritis
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Gastrointestinal cancer
Treatment Options:
- Endoscopy
- Colonoscopy
- Angiography
- Embolization
- Surgery
When to Seek Medical Help
- Severe abdominal pain
- Vomiting blood
- Black or tarry stools
- Fresh blood in stool
- Difficulty breathing
If you're experiencing fresh blood in stool or black stool, consult Dr. Sachin Wani, a Surgical Gastroenterologist in Thane at Healwell Speciality Clinic.
