What causes bloody stools?

Hematochezia, or blood in the stool, refers to the passage of feces mixed with blood, or blood present before or after defecation. The possible causes may include the following:

1. Lower gastrointestinal tract diseases: Bright red blood in the stool usually indicates bleeding from the lower gastrointestinal tract, such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, rectal polyps, colorectal cancer, and others.

2. Upper gastrointestinal tract diseases: Dark red or coffee-colored blood in the stool may originate from bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract, such as gastric ulcers, duodenal ulcers, ruptured esophageal varices, and others. Black, tarry stools strongly suggest significant bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract.

3. Inflammatory bowel disease: Conditions such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and certain infectious diseases may also cause blood in the stool. Acute hemorrhagic necrotizing enteritis can also lead to hematochezia.

4. Systemic diseases: Hematochezia may also be caused by systemic conditions such as thrombocytopenic purpura, hemophilia, and uremia.

5. Other factors: Improper diet, consumption of spicy or irritating foods, and similar factors may also exacerbate hematochezia symptoms.

If hematochezia occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended.