Does rectal cancer cause blood dripping from the stool?
In general, whether rectal cancer causes dripping blood in the stool depends on the severity of the condition. If the cancer is in its early stage, dripping blood usually does not occur. However, if it is in the middle or late stages, bleeding may occur. If discomfort arises, timely medical consultation is recommended. A detailed explanation is as follows:
Rectal cancer may be caused by poor diet, genetic factors, or rectal polyps. In the early stages of rectal cancer, when the tumor is small and has not invaded blood vessels, or when the tumor's growth pattern does not lead to easily bleeding ulcers, there may be no symptom of blood dripping from the rectum. At this stage, patients may mainly experience changes in bowel habits, narrowing of the stool, abdominal pain, bloating, and other symptoms, without visible rectal bleeding.
If rectal cancer progresses to the middle or late stages and the tumor becomes larger with ulceration, especially when stools are dry, blood may appear on the surface of the stool or dripping blood may be noticed after bowel movements. This type of bleeding typically consists of bright red blood, which may adhere to the surface of the feces, drip after defecation, or be present on toilet paper.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through balanced nutrition, regular sleep patterns, and moderate exercise can enhance immune function and reduce the risk of disease. Avoid long-term consumption of high-fat, low-fiber diets, and instead consume more fiber-rich foods. Additionally, regular colonoscopy screenings should be performed for early detection and treatment of rectal cancer.