Is rectal bleeding due to hemorrhoids or anal fissure?
Disease description:
In the past week, I have noticed bleeding during bowel movements. The blood is bright red and is mainly found on the surface of the stool or on the toilet paper. I would like to know whether this is caused by hemorrhoids or an anal fissure.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Li Jingxiang
Blood in the stool is a common gastrointestinal symptom that may be caused by anorectal diseases such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures. In the case of hemorrhoids, the swollen veins may rupture due to friction from stool or anal contraction, leading to bleeding. For anal fissures, passing stool can cause minor bleeding when the stool scrapes the ulcerated surface or stretches and tears the anal canal, often accompanied by anal pain.
Patients are advised to seek medical attention at a hospital promptly to determine the underlying cause through examination. Regarding treatment, if the hemorrhoids or anal fissures are mild, symptoms may be relieved by changing dietary habits, maintaining regular bowel movements, and avoiding both constipation and diarrhea. If symptoms are severe or conservative treatment proves ineffective, surgical intervention may be necessary.
