Blood in stool for several days

Blood in Stool for Several Days: What It Can Mean and What to Do

Seeing blood in stool can be alarming, especially if it lasts for several days. While some causes are mild and treatable, others may be more serious and should not be ignored. This guide explains what blood in stool may look like, common and less common causes, warning signs, and when to seek medical care—using clear, plain language and evidence-based information from widely accepted medical guidance.

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What Does "Blood in Stool" Look Like?

Blood in stool can appear in different ways, and the appearance often gives clues about where the bleeding may be coming from:

• Bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl
  Often linked to bleeding near the end of the digestive tract, such as the rectum or anus.
• Dark red or maroon stool
  May suggest bleeding higher in the colon or small intestine.
• Black, tarry stool (sometimes with a strong odor)
  Can indicate bleeding in the upper digestive tract, such as the stomach.
• Blood mixed into the stool
  May point to inflammation or bleeding inside the intestines.

If blood in stool continues for several days, even in small amounts, it deserves attention.

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Common Causes of Blood in Stool

Many cases of blood in stool are caused by conditions that are uncomfortable but not life-threatening. Common causes include:

• Hemorrhoids
  Swollen veins in the rectum or anus. Often cause bright red blood, especially after straining or passing hard stools.
• Anal fissures
  Small tears in the skin of the anus, commonly due to constipation. These can cause pain and bleeding.
• Constipation
  Hard stools can irritate or tear tissue, leading to bleeding.
• Diarrhea or frequent bowel movements
  Can inflame the lining of the rectum or anus, causing small amounts of blood.

These causes often improve with diet changes, hydration, and proper treatment—but bleeding should still be monitored.

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Digestive Conditions That Can Cause Ongoing Bleeding

If blood in stool lasts for several days or keeps coming back, digestive conditions may be involved, such as:

• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  Conditions like ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease can cause ongoing inflammation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloody stools.
• Diverticular disease
  Small pouches in the colon wall can bleed suddenly and sometimes heavily.
• Infections of the gut
  Certain bacterial or parasitic infections can cause bloody diarrhea, often with fever or cramping.
• Colon polyps
  Growths in the colon that may bleed. Some polyps can develop into cancer over time if not treated.

These conditions usually require medical evaluation and specific treatment.

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More Serious Causes to Be Aware Of

While less common, some serious conditions can cause blood in stool. It is important to be aware without jumping to conclusions:

• Colorectal cancer
  Blood in stool may be one of the early signs, especially if it is ongoing or combined with changes in bowel habits or unexplained weight loss.
• Stomach or intestinal ulcers
  These can bleed slowly over time, leading to dark or black stools.
• Blood vessel problems in the digestive tract
  Abnormal or fragile blood vessels can bleed intermittently.

Early detection greatly improves outcomes, which is why ongoing bleeding should never be ignored.

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When Blood in Stool Needs Urgent Care

You should speak to a doctor promptly or seek urgent care if blood in stool is accompanied by:

• Dizziness, weakness, or fainting
• Shortness of breath or chest discomfort
• Severe or worsening abdominal pain
• Fever and dehydration
• Large amounts of blood or clots
• Black, tarry stools lasting more than a day

These signs may indicate significant blood loss or a serious underlying condition.

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What You Can Do Right Now

If you have had blood in stool for several days, consider the following steps:

• Pay attention to patterns
  • Color of the blood
  • How often it appears
  • Changes in bowel habits
• Avoid straining
  • Drink enough water
  • Eat fiber-rich foods unless advised otherwise by a doctor
• Do not ignore ongoing bleeding
  • Even if you feel well otherwise

If you're uncertain about what might be causing your symptoms, you can use a free blood in stool symptom checker to help identify possible conditions and determine whether you should seek immediate care or schedule a routine appointment. While a symptom checker does not replace professional medical advice, it can help you take the right next step with confidence.

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How Doctors Evaluate Blood in Stool

When you speak to a doctor, they may:

• Ask detailed questions about your symptoms and medical history
• Perform a physical examination
• Recommend tests such as:
  • Stool tests
  • Blood tests
  • Imaging studies
  • Colonoscopy or other scopes to look inside the digestive tract

These steps help determine the cause and guide proper treatment.

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Treatment Depends on the Cause

Treatment for blood in stool varies widely and is based on the underlying problem:

• Hemorrhoids or fissures
  • Diet changes, topical treatments, and sometimes procedures
• Infections
  • Fluids and targeted medications
• Inflammatory bowel disease
  • Anti-inflammatory or immune-modifying medicines
• Polyps or cancer
  • Removal, surgery, or other specialized treatments

Early evaluation often means simpler and more effective treatment.

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Key Takeaways

• Blood in stool for several days is not normal, even if it is painless.
• Many causes are treatable, but some can be serious.
• The color and pattern of bleeding provide important clues.
• Do not delay care if bleeding continues or worsens.
• Use tools like a free online symptom check for Blood in stool to better understand your situation.
• Most importantly, speak to a doctor about any ongoing, severe, or life-threatening symptoms.

Taking action early is the best way to protect your digestive health and your peace of mind.