Blood in stool
Blood in stool: What it means and who to see
- Author: Dr Callum Pearce
- First published:
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Blood in stool causes
Why you might see blood in your stool
There are several reasons why you might see blood in your stool. Sometimes, it’s caused by something minor like haemorrhoids or a small tear (anal fissure), both of which can be quite common and usually harmless.
Dr Callum Pearce
Gastroenterologist Murdoch
Other causes might include diverticulosis, colitis, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In some cases, it could be due to polyps or colorectal cancer, which need to be checked sooner rather than later.
Blood in stool examination
Who should I see to investigate?
The first step is to see your GP. They can perform an initial examination, which often involves checking for visible causes, like tears or haemorrhoids. If they can spot something obvious, it’s usually an easy fix. However, if nothing is visible or the symptoms persist, your GP might ask for a stool analysis to investigate further.
Depending on what they find, your GP might refer you to a gastroenterologist—like me or one of my colleagues at Westside Gastroenterology in Murdoch—for a more detailed investigation.
It’s always best to get any unusual symptoms checked early, even if it seems minor. Your GP will guide you based on their findings, so don’t hesitate to start there.
Colonoscopy procedure Perth
When to see a gastroenterologist and what will they do
If your GP has referred you, it’s time to come to Westside Gastroenterology. Once here, we’ll have a chat about your symptoms, medical history, and what your GP found.
Depending on the situation, we might suggest a colonoscopy. Now, I know the word ‘colonoscopy’ can sound daunting, but it’s a straightforward procedure that helps us get a clear look at your colon. It’s one of the best ways to investigate the cause of bleeding and rule out any serious conditions.
“It’s a smooth process, and we make sure you’re comfortable throughout.”
Dr Callum Pearce
Gastroenterologist Murdoch
If you want to know more about the procedure, check out our main colonoscopy page and find out what conditions this procedure can detect.
Table of Contents
After effects of a colonoscopy
Conclusion
Finding blood in your stool can be worrying, but most causes are manageable with the right care. Always start by seeing your GP—they’ll help you figure out the next steps. If you do need to come and see us, we’re here at Westside Gastroenterology in Murdoch, ready to help you get things sorted.
Don’t ignore symptoms like this, but don’t lose sleep over it either. Sometimes, it’s as simple as a small tear that just needs time to heal. But if it’s something more serious, catching it early can make all the difference.
