Rectal Bleeding
Rectal Bleeding
If you have rectal bleeding, this guide can help you to identify some of the causes that are most likely to explain your symptoms. It also may help to explain the recommendations your doctor might make for your evaluation and treatment. This guide is not intended to replace a face-to-face evaluation with your doctor.
Rectal bleeding refers to dark or red blood that you see with a bowel movement or at times between bowel movements. You may notice the blood in the toilet or on your toilet tissue.
You should always contact your doctor if you notice rectal bleeding.
By answering a short series of questions, you will be directed to information pertinent to your personal situation.
It will help us to know how you learned about your bleeding. Some people see blood in the stool and others are told by a doctor that a chemical test on the stool was positive for blood (called guiac or hemocult).
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
