Symptom

Blood in the stool

Blood in the stool means blood visible in the stool or on toilet paper during a bowel movement. The blood may be bright red, darker, or the stool may even be black. Blood in the stool can originate from any part of the digestive tract, and its cause should always be investigated. The most common causes in Finland are hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and intestinal infections. Inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis, can also cause blood in the stool. Rarer but more serious causes include bleeding from intestinal polyps or tumors.

If the bleeding is heavy, the stool turns black (melena), the bleeding continues for several days, or you have other symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, weight loss, or a decline in your general condition, you should seek medical assessment as soon as possible. You should also have a professional investigate the issue if blood in the stool is a new symptom and the cause is unknown. In children, blood in the stool may be related to constipation, allergies, or intestinal infections, but the cause should always be investigated in children as well.

There are many possible causes of blood in the stool, and most are benign and easily treatable. Because rarer serious causes also exist, bleeding should never be ignored – a professional can help determine the cause and, if needed, refer you for further tests or treatment.

Practitioners – Blood in the stool

Frequently asked questions

Should I be concerned if I see blood on toilet paper after a bowel movement?

A small amount of bright red blood is often caused by hemorrhoids or a fissure, but the cause should always be confirmed. See a professional if the symptom recurs or if you do not know what is causing it.

Can blood in the stool be caused by diet?

Food can sometimes color the stool, but actual blood in the stool is usually not caused by what you ate. If in doubt, seek a professional assessment.

What should I do if a child has blood in the stool?

In children, blood in the stool is often benign, but the cause should always be investigated. Contact a healthcare professional because of the child’s symptoms.

When does blood in the stool require urgent care?

Go to the emergency department if the bleeding is heavy, the stool turns black, you feel worse, or you have other concerning symptoms. In other cases too, a professional will assess the cause.