The Facts About Common Causes of Rectal Bleeding

Have you ever wondered what the causes of rectal bleeding are? This is a health issue that many people are not aware of, nor comfortable talking about. The first time someone notices bleeding from the rectum, it is quite common to have a frightened or panicked reaction. Bleeding from the rectal area is often a symptom that comes from having hemorrhoids, but other cases of rectal bleeding may indeed be a cause for concern, and should in fact be addressed. Listed below you will find some common causes for rectal bleeding, along with an informative discussion on what those causes may be indicating from the bleeding in that area.

One possible cause is hemorrhoids:

Having hemorrhoids is one of the common causes of rectal bleeding. Hemorrhoids are found both internally and externally, and are both capable of causing rectal bleeding.

Internal Hemorrhoids Within The Rectum:

If the person afflicted with the internal hemorrhoids has a difficult bowel movement, this could cause the hemorrhoid to bleed. The bleeding is caused by the friction of the bowel movement rubbing harshly against the internal hemorrhoids; the blood may either be found on the toilet paper or in the toilet itself, and the amount should be minimal. Internal hemorrhoids aren't really associated with the pain that many experience while suffering from hemorrhoids, and often times the only symptom of an internal hemorrhoid is the rectal bleeding.

External Hemorrhoids Around The Anal Region:

A more noticeable type of hemorrhoid, the external hemorrhoid is found on the outside of the anus, but these can still be bothered by difficult bowel movements. Another way to irritate an external hemorrhoid is by wiping excessively. Once irritated, bleeding can also occur with external hemorrhoids. Along with the bleeding from the rectum, you may also experience itching, pain and swelling of the area.

Anal Fissures In The Rectum:

Another factor to make the list as a cause for bleeding from the rectum is the anal fissure. If the anus developes a tear or crack inside the anal canal, this is known as an anal fissure. Bowel movements that are difficult to pass can cause the anal canal to tear and that results in anal fissures, which may or may not be painful.

Issues Concerning Colon Health:

Bleeding can also be a result of colon problems such as polyps being present, colon cancer, and Diverticulitis.

What Is Diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis is developed when small sacks begin forming inside the sigmoid colon, and these sacks are prone to infection, abscesses and they have been known to rupture. Bleeding can be a symptom of Diverticulitis, but the rectal bleeding in this case is often more significant than the bleeding that stems from anal fissures or hemorrhoids. If you should notice this type of bleeding, it is most important to get medical assistance immediately.

The Presence of Colon Cancer:

Tumors come in two classes: benign and malignant, and either one of these can develop in the colon. Polyps is the common term used for the benign tumors, but the cancerous tumors are noted as being malignant. Malignant and benign tumors can both cause a heavier version of bleeding in comparison to the bleeding found with hemorrhoids and anal fissures. As in the case of Diverticulitis, bleeding of this nature really should have medical assistance as soon as possible.

Gastrointestinal Problems:

The formation of ulcers are also blood producing, and if bleeding ulcers form they may in fact cause rectal bleeding, although this condition is actually rare. Ulcers are not the only culprits in the gastrointestinal tract, another problem lies with the blood vessels inside the tract, because they can rupture and cause bleeding to some extent.  No matter what may be causing your symptom of bleeding form around the anus, it's best to visit your doctor and have it checked out, even if only for your own piece of mind.