Bloody stool

Definition

Bloody stool is the presence of blood in the feces, which can indicate gastrointestinal bleeding. It may appear as bright red blood or black, tarry stools depending on the location of the bleed.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bright red blood in stool typically indicates lower gastrointestinal bleeding, such as from hemorrhoids or colorectal cancer.
2. Black, tarry stools (melena) suggest upper gastrointestinal bleeding, often from conditions like peptic ulcers or gastritis.
3. Nutritional deficiencies, such as iron deficiency anemia, can be both a cause and a result of gastrointestinal bleeding leading to bloody stool.
4. Dietary choices, including high intake of NSAIDs or alcohol, can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
5. Patients with bloody stool should undergo diagnostic evaluations like colonoscopy or endoscopy to determine the source and cause of bleeding.

Review Questions

• What are the differences between bright red blood in stool and black tarry stools?
• How can nutritional deficiencies contribute to and result from bloody stool?
• What dietary factors might increase the risk of developing bloody stool?

Related terms

Hematemesis: Vomiting of blood, indicating upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

Iron Deficiency Anemia: A condition caused by insufficient iron levels in the body, often related to chronic blood loss.

Colonoscopy: A medical procedure used to examine the interior lining of the large intestine for abnormalities such as sources of bleeding.