Can an Anal Fistula Heal on Its Own?
Anal fistulas form when an abscess affects the anal area. An anal fistula is a tunnel between the skin of the buttocks and the anal canal. The condition can be painful—but can it heal on its own?
When Rectal Bleeding Requires Medical Attention
Blood may show up on toilet tissue or in the bowl after a bowel movement. When you’re not expecting it, you may feel shocked. For most people, it’s not a regular occurrence, and it’s easy to expect the worst.
While not all cases of rectal bleeding are serious, many require medical attention with greater urgency. Trust Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists to diagnose and treat your rectal bleeding condition. Dr. Lisa A. Perryman and her team provide compassionate and considerate care.
Causes of rectal bleeding
It’s always a good idea to seek medical diagnosis when you discover rectal bleeding. Regardless of its cause, rectal bleeding should be medically assessed by a specialist like Dr. Perryman.
Potential causes of rectal bleeding include:
- Anal fissures: sometimes painful tears in the anal wall that can cause bleeding
- Angiodysplasia: irregularities in blood vessels near your intestines
- Cancer of the anus, colon, or rectum
- Colon polyps
- Constipation or hard stools: can result in anal fissures because of straining to pass hard stools
- Diarrhea
- Diverticulosis: a pouch that forms in the intestinal wall
- Hemorrhoids: inflamed and swollen tissue inside your anus and rectum that may cause rectal bleeding
- Inflammatory bowel diseases including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
- Ischemic colitis: inflammation stemming from reduced blood flow
- Radiation therapy
If you are aware that you have a condition that can cause rectal bleeding, talk to Dr. Perryman about how to respond if bleeding should occur.
When rectal bleeding needs medical attention
Any unexpected incident of rectal bleeding requires a medical assessment to rule out a serious condition and provide peace of mind. Sometimes, the symptoms of minor and serious conditions are similar, with no way of knowing how serious the cause of the bleeding is without examination.
Rectal bleeding needs evaluation by a specialist.
What to expect during an exam
Dr. Perryman reviews your symptoms and your and your family’s medical history for background information. A physical exam checks for obvious signs of the cause of bleeding and includes using a gloved finger or an instrument called an anoscope. This exam is typically free of pain.
When it comes to rectal bleeding, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Contact our office in Parker, Colorado. You can book your appointment online or call the office directly at 303-840-8822. Don’t ignore unexplained rectal bleeding. Schedule your appointment today.
You Might Also Enjoy...
I’ve Been Diagnosed with Anal Warts; Now What?
Anal and genital warts result from HPV infection. Any sexual or skin-to-skin contact in the area around the anus could transmit an HPV strain that causes warts. Treatment depends on location and severity and typically involves topical solutions or surgery.
Chronic Anal Itching: When Should I Consult an Expert?
Anal itching can be embarrassing to talk about. It might not be a big deal if the problem is sporadic, but when it becomes chronic, you’ll want to find a solution, which may mean consulting an expert.
How Recurrent Anal Abscesses Increase Your Risk of Developing a Fistula
Glands inside the anus can sometimes become blocked, creating a painful anal abscess. About 50% of people with an anal abscess will go on to develop an anal fistula. Here’s what you need to know about each condition.
Can Pilonidal Disease Return After Surgery?
Pilonidal disease forms around the tailbone. Treatment often includes drainage or excision surgery. Will that take care of the problem? Maybe. Read on to learn about an approach with a high rate of preventing recurrence.
Do I Need Surgery for My Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are a tissue problem affecting blood vessels in and around the anus and rectum. Often a nuisance, sometimes persistent hemorrhoid symptoms require surgery.