What causes blood in the stool?

Blood in the stool can come from anywhere along the digestive tract. Common causes include:

  • Hemorrhoids or anal fissures (often bright red blood)
  • Stomach or duodenal ulcers (often causes dark, tarry stools)
  • Colon polyps
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease)
  • In some cases, more serious conditions that need to be ruled out

What about blood in vomit?

Blood in vomit (medically called hematemesis) can look bright red or like dark coffee grounds. It usually points to bleeding higher up in the digestive tract, such as from a stomach ulcer or the food pipe. This always needs prompt medical attention.

Always get this checked Blood in the stool or in vomit should always be evaluated by a doctor, even if it seems minor. Most causes, like hemorrhoids, are simple to treat — but a proper check is the only way to know for certain what's causing it. Seek urgent care if there is heavy bleeding, dizziness, black tarry stools, or repeated vomiting of blood.

What to expect at the clinic

Dr. Gattani will ask about the colour and pattern of the bleeding and examine you. Depending on what's suspected, a colonoscopy or endoscopy is often recommended to find the exact source.

Frequently asked questions

Not always — hemorrhoids are a very common and treatable cause. But it should always be checked, since the only way to be sure of the cause is a proper examination.

Depending on your symptoms, Dr. Gattani may recommend a colonoscopy to examine the colon or an endoscopy to check the upper digestive tract.

Heavy bleeding, dizziness, weakness, or black tarry stools need urgent medical attention right away.