Per Rectal Bleeding (Blood in Stool)

Per rectal bleeding, also known as hematochezia, refers to the presence of bright red blood in the stool. It can be alarming and may indicate underlying health issues. Let's explore the causes, potential concerns, recommended investigations, and risks associated with untreated per rectal bleeding.

Causes of Per Rectal Bleeding?

1. Haemorrhoids: Swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus are a common cause of rectal bleeding. These are often benign but can be uncomfortable.
2. Anal Fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus can lead to bleeding during bowel movements.
3. Diverticulosis: Small pouches (diverticula) in the colon can bleed if inflamed or irritated.
4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): While relatively uncommon as a cause of rectal bleeding, conditions such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease can lead to chronic inflammation in the digestive tract, resulting in bleeding.
5. Colorectal Polyps: These growths in the colon or rectum can bleed and may be precursors to cancer.
6. Colorectal Cancer: A more serious cause, especially in older individuals.
7. Anal Cancer: Again, this can be the more serious cause for the bleeding.

Concerns

It is important that you speak to your GP about your concerns about the bleeding in your stool.

• Severity: The amount of blood and the frequency of bleeding matter. Severe or recurrent bleeding requires prompt evaluation.
• Age: Older individuals are at higher risk of serious conditions like colorectal cancer. However recent Australian data has seen an increase in the 25-44 age group, (Source: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare).
• Associated Symptoms: Fever, weakness, vomiting, or large amounts of blood in the stool are concerning signs.
• Family members with colorectal conditions: A family history of colorectal cancer or polyps may increase your risk. Approximately 30% of colorectal cancer cases result from hereditary factors or a family history (Source: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare).

Investigations

Your GP can help guide you through the best investigations for your symptoms.

1. Colonoscopy: A direct examination of the colon and rectum to identify the source of bleeding. Read more about colonoscopy here.
2. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Similar to a colonoscopy but focuses on the lower part of the colon.
3. Blood Tests: To check for anaemia or other abnormalities.
4. Imaging: CT scans or MRIs may reveal structural issues.

Risks of Untreated Per Rectal Bleeding

1. Anaemia: Chronic bleeding can lead to low red blood cell count.
2. Delay in Diagnosis: Serious conditions like colorectal cancer may go undetected. Colorectal cancer is the second most common non-cutaneous malignancy in Australia, 15, 367 cases in 2023 (8133 men and 7234 women) and second only to lung cancer in terms of cancer mortality. In 2021 there were 5,350 deaths attributed to colorectal cancer (Source: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare). Early detection is crucial, with 90% of cases successfully treatable.
3. Complications: If the underlying cause worsens, complications can arise.

Remember that early evaluation and appropriate management are crucial for better outcomes.

To schedule a consultation with Dr. Golani, please contact our team for a consultation with Dr Golani. We have appointments available at three convenient locations across Sydney:

• Hornsby,
• North Sydney and
• Bella Vista

Please note that a GP referral will be required prior to your consultation.

Contact Us

To make an initial consultation booking, please contact our office on 02 8599 9819.

Click here to email us

Hornsby Clinic Address:

Madison Building
Suite 7, 25-29 Hunter St,
Hornsby NSW 2077
Phone: (02) 8599 9819
Email: info@drgolani.com.au
Fax:(02) 9012 0976

HealthLink: drgolani

Our Horsnby clinic is located conviniently next to Hornsby Westfield & Hornsby Station
Click here for MAP LOCATION

Mater Clinic Address:

Suite 13, Level 1 Mater Clinic
Mater Hospital
25 Rocklands Rd, North Sydney NSW 2060
Phone: (02) 8599 9819
Email: info@drgolani.com.au
Fax:(02) 9012 0976

HealthLink: drgolani

Our Mater clinic is located within Mater Hospital. Parking and Entry (convenient Pickup and Drop Zone) is via 5 Gillies St, Wollstonecraft.
Click here for MAP LOCATION

Norwest Clinic Address:

Suite 301C, Level 3
Q Central Building
10 Norbrik Dr, Bella Vista NSW 2153
Phone: (02) 8599 9819
Email: info@drgolani.com.au
Fax:(02) 9012 0976

HealthLink: drgolani

Our Norwest - Bella Vista clinic is located within Q Central Building - opposite Norwest Private Hospital. Free Limited Parking is available within the Q Central Building. There is a drop off zone outside of the building. Paid parking is available opposite at Norwest Private Hospital. Additionally there is parking at Woolworths Norwest Circa (5 minutes walk from the Clinic)
Click here for MAP LOCATION

What do I bring to my appointment?

• Referral letter
• X-Rays/Scans
• Test results relating to referral
• Health fund card
• Medicare card