Being concerned after noticing bright red blood after wiping yourself or seeing dark streaks of stool in your stool is important. However, most causes of rectal bleeding are not serious threats to your overall health and are treatable. In some cases, rectal bleeding can be an indication of a serious medical problem. If you notice any signs of rectal bleeding, you should seek the help of the best gastro doctor in Texas. The gastroenterologist will diagnose and treat the cause of your rectal bleeding. Keep reading to some of the causes of rectal bleeding.
Hemorrhoids
These are swollen veins in your anus or rectum that develop because of chronic constipation, obesity, pregnancy, and lifting heavy objects. Hemorrhoids are very uncomfortable but are not a medical emergency. They can easily be healed using over-the-counter ointments, but medical intervention is available for more severe cases.
Anal Fissure
An anal fissure is simply a tear in the skin around your anus. When you regularly strain to poop, it can split the skin causing rectal bleeding and burning during your bowel movements. In most cases, anal fissures will heal on their own.
Diverticulitis or Diverticulosis
Small pouches known as diverticula may develop in the weak areas of your intestines. When these pouches become inflamed, they will break in the bowel wall, causing rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, and possible infection. The best gastroenterologist in Texas will provide excellent Diverticulosis treatment services for patients.
Anal Fistula or Abscesses
The small glands in the anus that help you pass stool may also be susceptible to infection causing an abscess or fistula. When they become irritated, bleeding may occur.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Crohn’s disease and C-diff colitis San Antonio are types of inflammatory bowel disease. It is estimated that over 3 million Americans suffer from these serious medical conditions that may cause swelling and inflammation in the digestive tract. As a result, patients may experience pain, diarrhoea, cramping, intestinal blockage, and rectal bleeding. Although there is no cure for inflammatory bowel disease, these medical conditions can be effectively managed by gastroenterology experts.
Ulcers
Ulcers refer to areas of damage in the digestive tract. They usually develop when the digestive fluids are out of balance. Ulcers may cause bleeding high up in the digestive tract that may result in dark, tarry stool. A seasoned gastro doctor in Texas may recommend stress management, dietary changes, and medications to effectively manage ulcers.
Large Polyps
Polyps refer to growths that develop in the colon. Large polys can cause bleeding and if not treated may turn into cancer. A colonoscopy can help to detect polyps. In most cases, the best gastroenterologist can remove polyps during colonoscopy.
If you experience rectal bleeding cause by haemorrhoids, C-diff colitis, or other gastroenterology problems, you should contact your preferred gastroenterologist. Working with a gastro doctor in Texas will help to rule out any serious medical problems and ensure that you get the right treatment for your GI problems.