What causes bloody stool and stomach pain?
Discover the potential causes of stomach pain and bloody stool, and understand how to recognise symptoms for timely medical intervention.
What causes bloody stool and stomach pain?
Discover the potential causes of stomach pain and bloody stool, and understand how to recognise symptoms for timely medical intervention.
Bloody stool and stomach pain are serious symptoms that can indicate underlying digestive health issues. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to understand their possible causes, as they can be related to a range of conditions, from infections to chronic disorders. Bloody stool can vary in appearance, from bright red to dark and tarry, and is often accompanied by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.
While occasional stomach discomfort may not be cause for alarm, persistent symptoms should not be ignored. Early intervention can help identify the root cause of these symptoms and prevent the development of more serious conditions.
Bloody stool and stomach pain are serious symptoms that can indicate underlying digestive health issues. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to understand their possible causes, as they can be related to a range of conditions, from infections to chronic disorders. Bloody stool can vary in appearance, from bright red to dark and tarry, and is often accompanied by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.
While occasional stomach discomfort may not be cause for alarm, persistent symptoms should not be ignored. Early intervention can help identify the root cause of these symptoms and prevent the development of more serious conditions.
Common causes of bloody stool and stomach pain
Gastrointestinal infections
Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can cause bloody stool and stomach pain. Pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli can lead to inflammation and bleeding in the digestive tract, often accompanied by diarrhoea, fever, and nausea. While many infections resolve on their own, some require a doctor’s advice and treatment with antibiotics.
Peptic ulcers
Stomach ulcers, or peptic ulcers, are open sores in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine. These ulcers can cause bleeding, resulting in bloody stool and intense abdominal pain. Peptic ulcers are often caused by Helicobacter pylori infections or the prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, both types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), lead to chronic inflammation in the digestive tract. These gastrointestinal conditions can cause bloody stool, stomach pain, and cramping. If left untreated, IBD can result in more severe complications, such as cancer and bowel obstructions.
Haemorrhoids
Haemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in the rectum, can cause mild bleeding and stomach pain, especially during bowel movements. Though not usually serious, haemorrhoids can cause significant discomfort. Treatment may involve dietary adjustments, medications, or minor procedures to alleviate symptoms, such as sitz baths or rubber band ligation.
Common causes of bloody stool and stomach pain
Gastrointestinal infections
Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can cause bloody stool and stomach pain. Pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli can lead to inflammation and bleeding in the digestive tract, often accompanied by diarrhoea, fever, and nausea. While many infections resolve on their own, some require a doctor’s advice and treatment with antibiotics.
Peptic ulcers
Stomach ulcers, or peptic ulcers, are open sores in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine. These ulcers can cause bleeding, resulting in bloody stool and intense abdominal pain. Peptic ulcers are often caused by Helicobacter pylori infections or the prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, both types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), lead to chronic inflammation in the digestive tract. These gastrointestinal conditions can cause bloody stool, stomach pain, and cramping. If left untreated, IBD can result in more severe complications, such as cancer and bowel obstructions.
Haemorrhoids
Haemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in the rectum, can cause mild bleeding and stomach pain, especially during bowel movements. Though not usually serious, haemorrhoids can cause significant discomfort. Treatment may involve dietary adjustments, medications, or minor procedures to alleviate symptoms, such as sitz baths or rubber band ligation.
How stomach pain and bloody stool are diagnosed
Medical history and physical exam
A healthcare provider will begin by taking a detailed medical history and performing a physical examination. This helps rule out or identify potential causes of your symptoms.
Laboratory tests
Your gastrointestinal doctor may order blood tests or stool samples to detect infections, check for anaemia, or identify markers of inflammation, which can guide further diagnosis.
Imaging tests
In some cases, CT scans, ultrasounds, or X-rays may be used to get a clearer picture of the digestive tract and identify any physical issues that may be contributing to your symptoms.
Endoscopic procedures
Your doctor may recommend endoscopic procedures. These allow for direct visualisation of the gastrointestinal tract and help identify conditions such as ulcers or colorectal cancer.
How stomach pain and bloody stool are diagnosed
Medical history and physical exam
A healthcare provider will begin by taking a detailed medical history and performing a physical examination. This helps rule out or identify potential causes of your symptoms.
Laboratory tests
Your gastrointestinal doctor may order blood tests or stool samples to detect infections, check for anaemia, or identify markers of inflammation, which can guide further diagnosis.
Imaging tests
In some cases, CT scans, ultrasounds, or X-rays may be used to get a clearer picture of the digestive tract and identify any physical issues that may be contributing to your symptoms.
Endoscopic procedures
Your doctor may recommend endoscopic procedures. These allow for direct visualisation of the gastrointestinal tract and help identify conditions such as ulcers or colorectal cancer.
When to seek medical advice
Severe or persistent abdominal pain – If the pain becomes intense or doesn’t subside over time.
Large amounts of blood in the stool – Excessive bleeding may be a sign of a serious condition.
Unexplained weight loss – This could indicate something more severe, such as colorectal cancer.
Dizziness or fainting – Bood loss can lead to shock, causing fainting, which requires urgent care.
When to seek medical advice
Severe or persistent abdominal pain – If the pain becomes intense or doesn’t subside over time.
Large amounts of blood in the stool – Excessive bleeding may be a sign of a serious condition.
Unexplained weight loss – This could indicate something more severe, such as colorectal cancer.
Dizziness or fainting – Bood loss can lead to shock, causing fainting, which requires urgent care.
Treatment and management options
Gastrointestinal infections
Treatment for infections depends on the type of infection. Antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungal medications may be prescribed, alongside hydration and dietary changes to help manage symptoms.
Peptic ulcers
Medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and antacids are commonly used to reduce stomach acid and promote healing of the ulcer. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Managing IBD often involves medication to control inflammation, such as corticosteroids and immunosuppressants. Dietary changes and stress management may also help alleviate symptoms.
Haemorrhoid treatment
Haemorrhoid treatment includes over-the-counter remedies, warm baths, increased fibre intake, and, in more severe cases, surgical options, such as haemorrhoidectomy to remove the swollen veins.
Treatment and management options
Gastrointestinal infections
Treatment for infections depends on the type of infection. Antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungal medications may be prescribed, alongside hydration and dietary changes to help manage symptoms.
Peptic ulcers
Medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and antacids are commonly used to reduce stomach acid and promote healing of the ulcer. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Managing IBD often involves medication to control inflammation, such as corticosteroids and immunosuppressants. Dietary changes and stress management may also help alleviate symptoms.
Haemorrhoid treatment
Haemorrhoid treatment includes over-the-counter remedies, warm baths, increased fibre intake, and, in more severe cases, surgical options, such as haemorrhoidectomy to remove the swollen veins.
Don’t wait—get your symptoms checked today
While occasional stomach discomfort is common, persistent or severe stomach pain should never be ignored. Ongoing pain, especially when accompanied by bloody stool, can indicate serious underlying conditions like ulcers, infections, or inflammatory bowel diseases. If left unchecked, these issues can worsen and lead to significant health complications. Even something as simple as stress or food intolerance can have a major impact on your digestive system.
If you’re experiencing continued stomach pain, yellow mucus in stool, or other concerning symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention now. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing further damage and ensuring you receive the care you need. Don’t wait for symptoms to escalate—schedule your appointment today and take control of your digestive health before it becomes a bigger problem.
Don’t wait—get your symptoms checked today
While occasional stomach discomfort is common, persistent or severe stomach pain should never be ignored. Ongoing pain, especially when accompanied by bloody stool, can indicate serious underlying conditions like ulcers, infections, or inflammatory bowel diseases. If left unchecked, these issues can worsen and lead to significant health complications. Even something as simple as stress or food intolerance can have a major impact on your digestive system.
If you’re experiencing continued stomach pain, yellow mucus in stool, or other concerning symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention now. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing further damage and ensuring you receive the care you need. Don’t wait for symptoms to escalate—schedule your appointment today and take control of your digestive health before it becomes a bigger problem.
FAQs
What could cause bloody stool without pain?
Painless bloody stool could be caused by conditions such as haemorrhoids, anal fissures, or certain infections. If you notice blood without pain, it’s still important to consult with a healthcare provider.
Can stomach pain cause bloody stool?
Yes, stomach pain can be linked to bloody stool through conditions such as peptic ulcers or inflammatory bowel disease, which both involve inflammation or damage to the digestive tract.
What should I do if I notice blood in my stool?
If you notice blood in your stool, consult a doctor as soon as possible. The cause could range from minor to serious, and a professional evaluation is important for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Can stress cause bloody stool and stomach pain?
Stress can exacerbate digestive issues and may contribute to conditions like ulcers or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which could lead to stomach pain and bloody stool. Managing stress and seeking treatment are important.