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.
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...
4 Reasons You Might Have Anal Tags
Anal skin tags are common–read on to find out more.
Anal Itching at Night: What Could It Mean?
A skin condition affecting the region around the anus, pruritus ani (anal itching) has multiple causes. It can become worse at night, noticeable enough to disturb your sleep. It’s primarily a problem that affects men over the age of 40.
Surgical Treatment to Repair Anal Fissures
While an anal fissure can be a short-lived, self-healing condition, some turn into chronic, persistent problems. Acute anal fissures can cause severe pain. Whether acute or chronic, surgery may be the right choice to promote healing.
Surgical Treatment for Fistulas
Following an anal abscess, your chances of developing an anal fistula increase dramatically. An abnormal opening connecting the anal canal with the surface of the buttocks, a fistula won’t heal spontaneously. You’ll need surgery to cure the problem.
Rectal Bleeding Without Hemorrhoids: 3 Known Causes
It’s never a comfortable feeling to find signs of blood after a bowel movement. While it’s common with some types of hemorrhoids, it can also be a symptom of other colorectal issues. Here are three other causes of rectal bleeding.