Causes of Anal or Rectal Bleeding and Its Treatment at Home

Anal Bleeding

Anal bleeding refers to blood coming directly from the anus, which is the opening of the rectum. The anus is the opening through which the stool from the rectum is passed out. Rectal bleeding is blood expressed from the rectal passageways that are often combined with stool or through blood clots.

The two terminologies are used interchangeably because of the close proximity and nature of these areas. The blood may be fresh and bright red or black and merged with tarry stools. The severity of the condition is determined by the amount of blood that is lost. Bleeding that is described as a pink tinge on the toilet water, bloody drops or up to a spoonful is considered mild. Early consultation with a physician will decrease the chance of increasing the severity or may stop the condition eventually.

What are the Causes of Rectal Bleeding

There are numerous conditions and underlying disease processes that cause rectal bleeding. Diagnostic tests may be done to determine the exact area of the bleeding.

Proper assessment and diagnosis made by a physician is needed to ascertain the main cause.

  • Lesions on the anal opening or rectal wall.
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Anomalous blood vessels.
  • Anal fissures
  • Rectal and colonic polyps and cancers.
  • Ulcerative proctitis
  • Colitis. Varying from ulcerative, Infectious, ischemic, and Crohn’s.
  • Diverticulosis

Rectal Bleeding Treatment At Home

The severity of the bleeding and the conditions surrounding it are usually the basis for the treatment. Serious cases of bleeding will need treatment in the hospital. The doctor may prescribe aggressive antibiotics and other supportive medications. Blood transfusion and surgery may even be required to resolve certain illnesses. Some bleeding problems can be addressed without the need for hospitalization. Rectal bleeding can be treated at home under the advice of a doctor. Minimal bleeding can be treated and prevented at home through such practices as:

  • Proper hydration. 8 glasses of water per day can help the bowels.
  • Practice proper hygiene around the anus.
  • Application lubricants can decrease friction and protect the lining.
  • Application of Ice compress can be done to suppress the bleeding and decrease pain.
  • Application of creams that contain Vitamin A and D for healing.
  • Regular exercise to aid digestion.
  • Correct eating habits increasing the fiber content of the diet.
  • Avoid straining when expelling stool.
  • Multivitamins medication to increase tissue healing.

Follow the medication regimen prescribed by the doctor. Rectal suppositories, ointments and oral medications should be taken and applied correctly.

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