Gastroenterology Associates of Central Georgia LLC

Gastroenterologists located in Macon, Gray, Warner Robins, and Milledgeville, GA

Blood in your stool should never be ignored. If you’re experiencing rectal bleeding, the board-certified gastroenterologists at Gastroenterology Associates of Central Georgia can determine the cause and provide the most effective treatment. For an evaluation of your rectal bleeding, call the office in Macon, Georgia.

Rectal Bleeding Q & A

What is rectal bleeding?

In most cases, rectal bleeding refers to the bright red blood you see in the toilet after a bowel movement or on the toilet paper after you wipe. However, dark or tarry stools are also signs of rectal bleeding. Even though most causes of rectal bleeding aren’t serious, any time you see blood in your stool, you should contact your doctor for an evaluation. 

In addition to the noticeable blood in your stool, you may also experience rectal pain with your bleeding. Dizziness or fainting can also occur, especially if you’re losing a lot of blood.

What causes rectal bleeding?

Rectal bleeding is very common and easily treated in most cases. Common causes of rectal bleeding include:

Hemorrhoids
Diverticulitis or diverticulosis
Crohn’s disease
Ulcerative colitis
Ulcers
Large polyps
Anal fissure
Fistula

In some cases, rectal bleeding may indicate colon cancer, which is why it’s always important to discuss the bleeding with your doctor. 

Hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins that develop in the lower rectum or anus, are the most common cause of rectal bleeding and usually develop due to straining or pressure placed on your anus or rectum. 

What can I expect during an evaluation for rectal bleeding?

You can expect a comprehensive evaluation when you come in to see the board-certified gastroenterologists at Gastroenterology Associates of Central Georgia with concerns about rectal bleeding. The team first reviews your symptoms and medical history and then performs a physical exam.

To determine the cause of your rectal bleeding, the team may request diagnostic tests, such as:

Stool testing
Blood work
Colonoscopy
Endoscopy

Hemorrhoids can usually be diagnosed during a visual inspection or digital exam.

How is rectal bleeding treated?

Treatment for your rectal bleeding depends on the underlying cause. The experienced team at Gastroenterology Associates of Central Georgia takes a proactive approach to care and uses the most cutting-edge therapies available to treat the cause of your bleeding.

For hemorrhoids, they may remove the swollen vein with hemorrhoid banding. During the in-office procedure, your gastroenterologist places a small rubber band around the base of your hemorrhoid, which cuts off blood supply to the vein causing the hemorrhoid to dry out and fall off. 

To schedule an evaluation of your rectal bleeding, call Gastroenterology Associates of Central Georgia to request an appointment.