Why bleeding always warrants a visit.
Rectal bleeding is the proctology symptom that scares patients the most. The vast majority of cases are caused by hemorrhoids or fissures. But because bleeding can also be the first sign of more serious problems such as colon and rectal cancer. The right response is always to get it evaluated, not to wait.
How the evaluation works.
A typical visit starts with a focused conversation: when did the bleeding start, what does it look like, what triggers it, has it changed. The physical exam itself is brief and far less uncomfortable than patients expect — high-definition imaging in office allows Dr. Maz to show patients exactly what's happening, often immediately answering the question they came in with.
For most patients, a definitive cause is identified at the first visit. When deeper evaluation is needed, Dr. Maz can perform anoscopy in office to inspect the lower rectum directly. If the workup suggests bleeding from higher up, a colonoscopy referral is arranged promptly.
Treatment depends on the source.
Once the cause is identified, treatment is targeted — there's no generic protocol for "rectal bleeding."
- Bleeding from internal hemorrhoids — typically resolved with in-office banding or sclerotherapy. See hemorrhoid treatment.
- Bleeding from a fissure — resolved with the conservative healing protocol. See anal fissure.
- Bleeding from inflammation, infection, or other causes — treated based on the specific finding.
When to come in immediately.
If you are experiencing severe rectal bleeding, go to your nearest emergency department or call 911.
For everything else, a same-day appointment in this office is usually possible — and getting an answer is almost always less stressful than waiting.