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    3. Gastroenterology
    4. Rectal Bleeding

    Rectal Bleeding

    At Mayo Clinic Healthcare in London, our gastroenterology specialists work collaboratively to investigate and provide a diagnosis for rectal bleeding with precision and sensitivity. Using advanced diagnostic technology and a multidisciplinary approach, we aim to identify the underlying cause promptly and develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to each patient’s needs.

    Located in the heart of central London, Mayo Clinic Healthcare provides access to internationally recognised expertise and world-class gastroenterology healthcare.

    • Rectal bleeding refers to the passage of blood from the rectum or anus. Blood may appear on toilet tissue after wiping, in the toilet bowl following a bowel movement, or mixed within the stool itself.

      The colour and appearance of the blood can provide important clues about where the bleeding originates within the digestive tract. Bright red blood is often associated with conditions affecting the lower bowel or rectum, while darker blood may indicate bleeding higher within the gastrointestinal tract.

    • Rectal bleeding can be spotted by checking the toilet bowl after a bowel movement. 

      Symptoms associated with rectal bleeding may include: 

      • Red streaks on the outside of the stool
      • Blood on the toilet paper
      • Blood in stool, or diarrhea 
      • Pink water in the toilet 
      • Very dark stool, where blood has mixed with the stool

      In some cases, rectal bleeding will go away on its own. However, persistent, recurrent or unexplained bleeding should always be assessed by a specialist. 

      You must seek urgent medical attention if you have: 

      • Rapid, shallow bleeding
      • Dizziness when standing up
      • Blurred vision
      • Fainting
      • Confusion
      • Nausea
      • Cold, clammy, pale skin
      • Low urine output

    • Rectal bleeding can result from a range of conditions, from relatively minor concerns to more serious gastrointestinal disease. 

      Common causes of rectal bleeding include: 

      • Anal fissures
      • Constipation
      • Hard stools
      • Haemorrhoids (piles)

      Less common causes of rectal bleeding include: 

      • Anal cancer
      • Angiodysplasia
      • Colon cancer
      • Colon Polyps
      • Crohn’s disease
      • Diarrhea
      • Diverticulosis 
      • IBS
      • Ischemic colitis
      • Proctitis
      • Pseudomembranous colitis
      • Radiation therapy
      • Rectal cancer
      • Solitary rectal ulcer syndrome
      • Ulcerative colitis

      Our specialists carry out a thorough assessment to determine a diagnosis for rectal bleeding and recommend the most appropriate treatment approach.

    • Our gastroenterology specialists use state-of-the-art technology to find a diagnosis for rectal bleeding. We have a collaborative approach to care and will work alongside other specialist departments, like diagnostics, to build a personalised treatment plan. 

      Your consultant will begin your consultation by asking you about your symptoms, before reviewing any medical and family history. 

      They may carry out one or more of these investigations: 

      • Blood tests, to check for anaemia, infections and iron levels
      • Stool sampling
      • Anoscopy, to look for anal fissures or haemorrhoids
      • Flexible sigmoidoscopy 
      • Colonoscopy
      • CT Colonoscopy, where a standard colonoscopy is unsuitable

    • Treatment depends on the diagnosis for rectal bleeding. Your consultant will develop an individualised treatment plan based on your diagnosis, symptoms, medical history and lifestyle factors. 

      Common treatments include: 

      Hemorrhoids (piles):

      • More fibre and fluids
      • Creams/suppositories
      • Warm baths
      • Banding or surgery

      Anal fissure

      • Stool softeners
      • Sitz baths
      • Medicated ointments
      • Occasionally surgery

      Constipation-related bleeding

      • Fibre
      • Hydration
      • Laxatives

      Inflammatory bowel disease

      • Anti-inflammatory medicines
      • Steroids
      • Biologic drugs

      More serious causes (polyps, cancer, severe bleeding):

      • Colonoscopy
      • Specialist treatment
      • Surgery            

    • Mayo Clinic Healthcare combines internationally recognised medical expertise with highly personalised care in a premium central London setting.

      Patients benefit from:

      • Access to experienced gastroenterology and colorectal specialists
      • A collaborative multidisciplinary approach
      • Advanced diagnostic technology
      • Personalised treatment planning
      • Seamless access to specialist investigations and procedures
      • The global reputation and clinical standards associated with Mayo Clinic

    Private health insurance

    We work with all major private health insurers, including AXA PPP, Aviva, Bupa, Health Partners Group, Vitality Health and WPA. Self-pay options are also available, offering flexibility for both UK-based and international patients. 

    Private assessment

    Our team is here to answer your questions and identify the cause of rectal bleeding and provide personalised treatment options. Request an appointment with us today, or call +44 (0) 207 871 2575.

    Medically Reviewed by

    Dr Sarmed Sami, Consultant Gastroenterologist

    Home
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    4. Rectal Bleeding