Rectal Bleeding
Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists
Lisa A. Perryman, MD, FACS, FASCRS
Colon and Rectal Surgeon & A Private Medical Practice located in the Denver Metropolitan Area, CO
Seeing blood after using the bathroom can be frightening. At Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists in the Denver metropolitan area, Colorado, board-certified colon and rectal surgeon/ proctologist Lisa A. Perryman, MD, FACS, FASCRS, offers on-site diagnostic services to quickly identify the underlying cause of rectal bleeding, so treatment can begin as soon as possible. If you have unexplained rectal bleeding that isn’t going away, schedule a consultation with Dr. Perryman by calling Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists or requesting an evaluation through the online booking feature.
Rectal Bleeding Q & A
What causes rectal bleeding?
Rectal bleeding can be the result of a number of underlying health issues. For this reason, it’s important that you schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists if you notice blood on the toilet paper or in the bowl after going to the bathroom.
Dr. Perryman can determine if you have one or more conditions that can result in rectal bleeding, such as:
- Infection
- Constipation
- Hemorrhoids
- Anal fissures
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Cancer
Dr. Perryman is highly skilled in diagnosing rectal bleeding that results from colon or anal cancer when cancer is still in the earliest stage.
How is the cause of rectal bleeding diagnosed?
During your diagnostic evaluation for rectal bleeding, Dr. Perryman reviews your medical history and discusses your symptoms. She asks specific questions about your bleeding, such as the color of the blood and what your stools look like. She may recommend a colonoscopy.
Dark red blood may be an indication that there’s an issue in your small intestine or colon. If you have bright red blood, the condition may relate to lower gastrointestinal tract issues in the colon or rectum. If you have black stools, bleeding may stem from problems in the stomach or the upper part of your small intestine.
Dr. Perryman performs a physical exam of your anus and may use a special scope to view the inner structures of your digestive tract to identify abnormalities that can cause rectal bleeding.
How is rectal bleeding treated?
Because there are many potential causes of rectal bleeding, Dr. Perryman customizes a treatment plan that focuses on your unique needs. She offers nonsurgical treatments for a wide variety of conditions, including hemorrhoids, constipation, and anal fissures.
If you have a more serious condition that requires surgery, Dr. Perryman uses the latest surgical techniques to ensure you heal fully.
Additionally, Dr. Perryman works closely with you on dietary and lifestyle changes that can help you prevent hemorrhoids, fissures, and other conditions that cause persistent or recurrent rectal bleeding. This may include adding more fiber to your diet, getting daily exercise, and practicing proper hygiene.
To learn more about treatment options available to address unexplained rectal bleeding, call Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists or request an appointment online.