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.

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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).

I saw blood.

My stool tested positive for blood with a chemical test.