Stool with alternating red and normal-colored segments

Stool with alternating red and normal color segments may be caused by conditions such as internal hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or rectal polyps. Treatment can involve medication or surgery.

1. Internal Hemorrhoids

Alternating red and normal-colored stool segments may indicate internal hemorrhoids, which are typically caused by congestion and swelling of the venous plexus in the anal canal or lower rectum. The main symptoms usually include bleeding or protrusion of hemorrhoidal tissue, with blood often appearing on the surface of the stool. Symptoms can be relieved by applying hemorrhoid ointments under medical guidance, such as musk hemorrhoid ointment or bear bile hemorrhoid ointment. In severe cases, surgical removal of the hemorrhoids may be necessary.

2. Anal Fissure

This symptom may also result from an anal fissure, commonly caused by repeated constipation leading to injury of the anal skin. Under medical supervision, sitz baths with potassium permanganate can be used, along with lidocaine gel to help relieve pain. For severe cases, an internal anal sphincterotomy may be performed.

3. Rectal Polyps

Rectal polyps may develop due to long-term chronic inflammation or poor dietary habits. These usually require surgical removal to prevent malignant transformation, such as polypectomy during colonoscopy or endoscopic submucosal resection.