Blood in Stool: Could It Be Colorectal Cancer?

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Prolife Cancer Centre & Research Institute best Colorectal Cancer hospital in pune
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What does cancerous bloody stool look like?

Blood from colorectal cancer can vary in appearance depending on where the tumor is located in the digestive tract. It may look like bright red streaks smeared on the stool, dark red blood mixed inside, or sticky, black, tarry stools, though it can also be completely invisible to the naked eye. 

Visual Characteristics and Location

  • Bright Red Blood: Usually points to bleeding lower in the colon or the rectum. It may appear as streaks on the outside of the stool or drip into the toilet bowl 
  • Dark or Black Tarry Stool: Usually indicates bleeding higher up in the colon, where the blood has time to digest and darken before passing. 
  • Occult (Hidden) Blood: Many tumors bleed in microscopic amounts that do not change the visible color of the stool at all. 

     

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What is the most common reason for bloody stool?

The most common reason for a bloody stool is hemorrhoids or anal fissures. These are minor, non-cancerous conditions usually caused by constipation and straining during a bowel movement, which result in bright red blood seen on the surface of the stool or on the toilet paper. 

Common Causes of Bloody Stool

  • Hemorrhoids: Swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus that easily irritate and bleed.
  • Anal Fissures: Tiny tears in the lining of the anal canal from passing hard stools.
  • Diverticulosis: Small pouches in the colon wall that can bleed or rupture.
  • Gastrointestinal Infections: Bacterial or viral bugs that cause bloody diarrhea.
  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD):Ongoing swelling and sores in the digestive tract.
     
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Why Choose Prolife Cancer Centre, Pune for Colorectal Cancer Treatment?

At Prolife Cancer Centre, Pune, patients with persistent blood in stool, rectal bleeding, or suspected colorectal cancer can receive comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment.