What is Minor Rectal Bleeding (MRB)?
Minor rectal bleeding is the passage of a few drops of bright red or fresh blood from the rectum, often visible on stools, toilet paper, or in the toilet bowl.
Doctor's Suggestion
"Most of the causes of MRB are benign, not life-threatening and easily treatable. There can be instances when this minor rectal bleed could be a symptom of cancer and if detected early, can be cured. The key takeaway is that patients with minor rectal bleed should be evaluated by a gastroenterologist or a physician." — Dr. Harmeet Singh Saluja
Common Causes of Rectal Bleeding
- Hemorrhoids or piles
- Anal fissures
- Proctitis (inflammation of the rectum)
- Rectal ulcers
- Colon or rectal polyps
- Colon or anal cancer
Evaluation Techniques
Doctor's Suggestion
Dr. Saluja states, “There are several techniques that gastroenterologists use to examine the cause and severity of minor rectal bleed. This includes looking for anal fissures, hemorrhoids, and cancer using a gloved, lubricated finger to feel for abnormalities in the anal region and lower rectum.”
He adds that the doctor may also perform a sigmoidoscopy or a colonoscopy. Patients are sometimes sedated to ensure comfort during the procedures.
Condition Overview & Treatments
Hemorrhoids
Swollen or engorged blood vessels in and around the anus and rectum caused by pressure due to:
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Straining during defecation
- Lifting heavy weights
- Prolonged sitting or standing
Treatment: Start with managing constipation using fiber supplements (like psyllium husk) and laxatives. Larger hemorrhoids may need band ligation or surgery.
Anal Fissures
Small tears in the lining of the anus caused by constipation and straining. These can cause sharp, burning pain and bleeding during defecation.
Treatment: Stool softeners, fiber, laxatives, and topical creams are recommended to promote healing.
Proctitis
Inflammation of the rectal lining caused by infections, medications, radiation, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Treatment: Depends on the underlying cause (e.g., antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, or IBD treatment).
Rectal Ulcers
Usually linked with prolonged straining and constipation. Symptoms include bleeding, pain, and passage of mucus.
Treatment: Stool softeners, sucralfate enemas, or endoscopic procedures like Argon Plasma Coagulation (APC).
Colon or Rectal Polyps
Benign growths in the lining of the large bowel that may cause bleeding if located in the rectum.
Treatment: Removal using a technique called polypectomy, usually performed during colonoscopy.
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