Blood in Stool: When to Worry and When to See a GI Doctor

Introduction

Seeing blood in your stool can be scary—but it doesn’t always mean something serious. That said, blood should never be ignored.

Understanding what it looks like and what it may indicate can help determine when evaluation is urgent.

Types of Blood in Stool

Bright Red Blood

Often related to:

• Hemorrhoids

• Anal fissures

• Rectal inflammation

Dark or Black Stool

May indicate bleeding higher in the digestive tract and requires urgent evaluation.

Common Causes

• Hemorrhoids

• Colon polyps

• Diverticulosis

• Inflammatory bowel disease

• Colon cancer

When to Worry

Seek prompt GI evaluation if blood is accompanied by:

• Abdominal pain

• Anemia

• Weight loss

• Changes in bowel habits

• Family history of colon cancer

How a Gastroenterologist Evaluates Blood in Stool

Evaluation may include:

• Lab work

• Stool studies

• Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy

A colonoscopy is often recommended to rule out serious causes.

If you notice blood in your stool—even once—schedule an evaluation with a gastroenterologist. Early assessment leads to peace of mind and better outcomes.