Is seeing blood in your stool a serious issue?

-Seeing blood in your stool, on the toilet paper or having low blood levels on your routine labs is a common problem we encounter in our office in Queens, New York on a daily basis. Fortunately, most causes are not life threatening and easily treatable. However, it is not possible to know the cause of rectal bleeding without an examination. We strongly recommend that ANYONE who has evidence of rectal bleeding come see Dr. Aviles and Dr. Tenembaum for an evaluation.

 

What are some causes of blood in stool?

-Common causes of seeing blood in your stool are internal & external hemorrhoids, diverticulosis, constipation, ulcers, anal fissures and polyps. Why we worry when patients come in with blood in stool is that bleeding can be caused by some more serious life threatening conditions like tumors, colon cancers, rectal cancers, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. The only way to know the cause is by seeing a Doctor. 

 

What are some symptoms?

-Symptoms associated with blood in stool include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath and paleness. Sometimes, bleeding can be silent without any symptoms and without any noticeable change in bowel movement and presents with low blood levels on routine labs. 

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When to see a Doctor?

-Seek immediate care if you have rapid shallow breathing, dizziness, fainting, confusion, significant rectal bleeding or if its accompanied by chest/abdominal pain or cramping. All others should make an appointment with Dr. Israel Aviles and Dr. David Tenembaum in our Queens, New York office for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

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