Feces, Poop & Butt Issues / Question
Published: December 10, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Hi, I am a 19 year old male I have just noticed within the past 2 days some blood on the toilet paper after wiping I went about 4 days before I went to the bathroom and it was after that that I noticed it, colon cancer doesn't run in the family, but my aunt has hemorrhoids and my grandma has diverticulosis would either of these 2 cause it, and should I see a physician or wait to see if it stops, would talking something high in fiber help or mineral oil?
Signed: 19 YO Male With Blood On Toilet Paper
Dear 19 YO Male With Blood On Toilet Paper,
Rectal bleeding is actually a relatively common problem and usually is not serious, unless it persists for a long time. It can be caused by a variety of things, including simple abrasions from itchy clothing or dry skin. But, usually it occurs because of a cut or a fissure on the inside or the outside of the rectum. Many times this cut can come about due to straining to pass a hard bowel movement, which is a common occurrence after a little bit of constipation (which seems to be what you are describing, as you went 4 days without having a bowel movement).
You are right that hemorrhoids can also cause rectal bleeding. Hemorrhoids are defined as enlarged veins in the lower portion of the anus or rectum and can be caused by:
- Increased pressure in the veins of the anus
- Straining during a bowel movement
- Constipation
- Prolonged sitting
- Infection
Symptoms usually associated with hemorrhoids, other than rectal bleeding, include blood in the stool, pain during a bowel movement and anal itching. Fortunately, there are many things that can be done to treat hemorrhoids, so if it turns out that this is what is causing your rectal bleeding, rest assured that you should be ok in a little while.
Diverticulosis is generally a condition of older people, so that is probably not what is causing your rectal bleeding. And, bleeding is not usually a common symptom of Diverticulosis, except as a complication of long-standing disease.
Even though your rectal bleeding is most likely related to hemorrhoids or a cut in your rectum or anus, it is a good idea to see a doctor if this does not clear up within a few days or you experience this again. He or she can give you reassurance that everything is ok and offer you medical treatments if indicated. Increasing the amount of fiber in your diet is a good way to keep your bowel movements regular and drinking plenty of water can help make your stools moist and easy to pass; this can reduce the occurrence of constipation and subsequent straining in going to the bathroom. If you increase the amount of fiber in your diet and drink 6-8 glasses of water a day you probably will not have to use mineral oil to keep your stools moist. It is generally not a good idea to take medications regularly unless prescribed by your doctor, so if you find yourself frequently troubled by constipation it is a good idea to see your physician before taking anything, including over-the-counter medications like mineral oil. Your doctor will be able to give you some advice on how best to deal with this problem and offer suggestions about how to prevent it recurring in the future.
If you do not have a doctor and live in Northern New Jersey you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at (973) 971.6475 for an appointment.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Compared with other age groups, teens have the lowest rate of seat belt use, and male high school students are more likely than female students to rarely or never wear seat belts.
