Rectal Bleeding
Proctologist located in Beverly Hills, Huntington Beach, and Newport Beach, CA
About Dr. Ghodsian
Rectal bleeding refers to any blood that passes from your anus, lower colon, or rectum. It may present as blood in your stool, on toilet paper, in undergarments, or visible in the toilet bowl. Blood can range from bright red to dark maroon. While minor bleeding is common, it can also be a symptom of more serious conditions such as colorectal cancer, so proper evaluation is important.
Dr. Maz’s offices in Beverly Hills and Huntington Beach, California, have the expertise and on-site diagnostics to determine the cause of your bleeding and offer effective treatment. Call today or use our online booking tool for an in-person or telehealth consultation.
Q&A
What causes rectal bleeding?
The most frequent causes are tears (anal fissures) from constipation and symptomatic hemorrhoids. Additional causes include:
- Anal cancer
- Colon polyps or colorectal cancer
- Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
- Diverticulosis
- Ischemic colitis or proctitis
- Angiodysplasia
- Radiation injury
- Solitary rectal ulcer syndrome
- Sexually transmitted disease (STD)
What symptoms accompany rectal bleeding?
Bleeding from internal hemorrhoids can be painless, but you may also experience anal pain, pressure, or cramping. Seek emergency help if bleeding is heavy or accompanied by dizziness, light-headedness, blurred vision, nausea, or severe abdominal pain.
How is rectal bleeding diagnosed and treated?
Your visit begins with a thorough history and physical exam including perianal inspection, digital rectal exam, and anoscopy. Cultures, stool studies, or imaging may be ordered. If the source isn’t identified in-office, colonoscopy or upper endoscopy may be necessary.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Minor fissures and hemorrhoids often resolve with conservative care. Other sources may require non-surgical procedures or surgical intervention. Whatever the cause, Dr. Maz crafts an individualized plan to stop the bleeding and prevent recurrence.
Concerned about blood in your stool? Call 310-982-2400 or book online today.