How to Treat Fresh Bloody Diarrhea at Home: 4 Causes and Tips for Resolution

Rectal bleeding or blood in stool is a condition that causes many people concern, especially when seeing red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl. In reality, anal bleeding is often associated with common causes such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures. However, it can also be a sign of colorectal polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, or some more serious conditions.

The important thing is not to panic, but to correctly identify the cause and the degree of danger. Tiptory will help you differentiate common causes, guide you on how to properly manage blood in stool, and highlight signs that require early medical attention. In particular, if blood appears for many days, is profuse, accompanied by severe abdominal pain, dizziness, or unusual fatigue, you should not self-treat at home but seek medical evaluation.

Proper management of anal bleeding

1. Increase fiber intake in your diet

• Supplement with green vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains to soften stools, helping to reduce straining during bowel movements.

• This step is especially helpful if rectal bleeding is related to constipation, hemorrhoids, or anal fissures.

• Increase fiber gradually to limit bloating and abdominal discomfort.

2. Drink enough water daily

• Regular water intake helps soften stools and makes bowel movements easier.

• When increasing fiber, adequate hydration is even more important for the fiber to be effective.

• Avoid dehydration, especially when experiencing constipation or blood in stool.

3. Do not strain during bowel movements

• When using the toilet, relax your body and avoid excessive force.

• Do not sit on the toilet for too long or try to continue if there is no natural urge.

• This habit can help reduce pressure on the anal area and limit anal bleeding due to hemorrhoids or anal fissures.

4. Over-the-counter medication may be used when appropriate

• If the cause is related to hemorrhoids, some over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams or ointments can help relieve itching, pain, and discomfort for a short period.

• Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used if needed, but carefully read the instructions and avoid prolonged self-medication.

• If rectal bleeding does not improve, do not continue self-medicating but seek to identify the cause.

5. Seek immediate medical attention for abnormal signs

• Stools that are black and tarry or dark red may indicate bleeding higher up in the digestive tract and require medical evaluation.

• Seek early medical attention if anal bleeding is accompanied by fever, severe pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, or unintentional weight loss.

• If blood in stool is prolonged or recurrent, experts recommend not assuming it's hemorrhoids but getting checked to rule out other conditions.

Part 1: How to identify different types of blood in stool

Method 1: Recognizing minor anal bleeding

Bright red blood usually appears in small amounts

• If you see a few drops or streaks of bright red blood on toilet paper, on the surface of your stool, or in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement, this is often a sign of bleeding in the anal area or lower rectum.

• Common causes include hemorrhoids and anal fissures. However, blood color alone is not enough to accurately determine the cause.

• If rectal bleeding occurs only once in a very small amount and is not accompanied by other abnormal symptoms, you can monitor the situation and schedule an examination if the phenomenon recurs.

Hemorrhoids are a common cause

• Hemorrhoids occur when blood vessels and supporting tissues around the anus become swollen or inflamed.

• Hemorrhoids can cause bright red blood in stool, itching, pain, or discomfort around the anus.

• Constipation, hard stools, and straining during bowel movements can make symptoms more likely or severe.

Anal fissures can cause pain during bowel movements

• Anal fissures are small tears in the lining of the anus, often related to hard stools or constipation.

• Typical signs include bright red blood with stool accompanied by sharp pain during defecation, followed by a burning sensation.

• Holding back stool, straining vigorously, or prolonged constipation can make the fissure difficult to heal and cause recurrent anal bleeding.

Other causes also need to be considered

• Anal sex without adequate lubrication or improper preparation can cause temporary injury and bleeding.

• Some sexually transmitted diseases can cause lesions around the anus, especially with the appearance of genital warts or other abnormal manifestations.

• Anticoagulants like warfarin can increase the risk of bleeding. If blood in stool occurs without pain while using anticoagulants, inform your doctor instead of stopping the medication on your own.

Do not be complacent just because the blood is bright red

• Minor anal bleeding is usually not an emergency, but the cause still needs to be identified if it is prolonged, recurrent, or increasing in amount.

• In particular, seek early medical attention if blood appears with abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, fever, changes in bowel habits, or unintentional weight loss.

• Experts recommend not self-diagnosing all cases of blood in stool as hemorrhoids, as rectal bleeding can also be related to other conditions that require examination.

Method 2: Blood mixed in stool requires attention

Bright red blood mixed in stool usually originates from the lower part of the digestive tract

• If you see bright red blood mixed in stool, streaked on the stool, or mixed with mucus in the toilet, the bleeding source may be in the rectum or lower part of the colon.

• Small amounts of blood that appear fleetingly are usually not an immediate danger sign. However, blood color alone cannot accurately determine the cause.

• If rectal bleeding recurs frequently, is prolonged, or is accompanied by abnormal changes in bowel movements, you should be examined by a doctor.

Anal fistula can cause blood with discharge

• An anal fistula is an abnormal channel that connects the anal canal or rectum to the skin around the anus, often related to a previous infection or abscess.

• Patients may notice anal bleeding with discharge or pus, perianal pain, swelling, or skin irritation.

• This condition usually does not resolve completely on its own and requires medical evaluation to choose the appropriate treatment method.

Gastroenteritis is often accompanied by diarrhea

• Gastroenteritis can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or fever; in some cases, stool may contain blood.

• If blood in stool is accompanied by high fever, severe abdominal pain, prolonged diarrhea, or signs of dehydration, seek medical attention instead of self-treating at home.

• Particular attention should be paid to excessive thirst, dry mouth, infrequent urination, dizziness, or unusual fatigue.

Inflammatory bowel disease can cause bloody diarrhea

• Chronic inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause prolonged diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, and blood in stool.

• If symptoms recur with weight loss, fatigue, or changes in bowel habits, consult a gastroenterologist to find the cause.

• Diagnosis is usually based on symptoms, tests, and appropriate investigations, rather than solely on the color of blood in the stool.

Colon polyps sometimes cause bleeding

• Colon polyps are tissue growths on the lining of the colon. Many polyps do not cause symptoms, but some can bleed.

• Most polyps are not cancerous, but some types have the potential to develop into colorectal cancer over time.

• Therefore, unexplained blood in stool, especially when recurrent, needs medical evaluation to identify the source of bleeding and rule out serious conditions.

Method 3: Black or dark red stool requires immediate examination

Black or dark red stool can be a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding

• If stool is black and tarry or dark red like coffee grounds, this condition may be related to upper gastrointestinal bleeding, such as from the stomach or duodenum.

• Blood passing through the digestive tract can change color, so anal bleeding does not always manifest as bright red blood on toilet paper.

• This is a sign that requires early medical evaluation, especially if the amount of blood is large or accompanied by dizziness, weakness, shortness of breath, or fainting.

Trauma can cause internal bleeding

• After traffic accidents, severe impact, falls, or abdominal trauma, blood in stool or black stool can be related to injury and internal bleeding in the digestive tract.

• Do not wait for symptoms to disappear on their own if there is a history of recent trauma.

• Go to a medical facility immediately if accompanied by severe abdominal pain, abdominal distension, dizziness, cold skin, or feeling faint.

Colorectal cancer also needs to be ruled out

• Colorectal cancer can cause blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits, or a feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation.

• Other notable signs include fatigue, weakness, anemia, prolonged changes in the frequency or consistency of stools, and unintentional weight loss.

• Not all cases of blood in stool are due to cancer, but recurrent bleeding or bleeding accompanied by the above signs requires evaluation by a doctor.

Stomach or duodenal ulcers can cause black stool

• Stomach or duodenal ulcers can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, which turns stool black.

• Patients may also experience pain or a burning sensation in the upper abdomen, rather than just anal pain.

• If bleeding due to ulcers is suspected, seek early medical attention to identify the bleeding site and treat the cause.

Diverticular disease can cause gastrointestinal bleeding

• Diverticular disease of the colon occurs when small pouches form in the colon wall. Some cases can cause significant bleeding.

• If blood in stool is accompanied by abdominal pain, fever, nausea, or significant changes in digestive status, a doctor's examination is needed.

• Do not self-diagnose the cause based solely on stool color, as many digestive conditions can cause similar symptoms.

Emergency care is needed if there are signs of blood loss

• Go to a medical facility immediately if anal bleeding or gastrointestinal bleeding is accompanied by any of the following:

  • Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.

  • Shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, or weakness.

  • Severe abdominal pain.

  • Large amounts of black stool or rapidly increasing blood.

  • Cold, pale skin, or sweating.

• In these cases, do not delay seeking medical attention for self-monitoring at home.

Method 4: Food can change stool color

Not all red or black stool is blood

• If stool color changes only after eating certain dark-colored foods and you have no pain, no clear blood in stool, or no other abnormal symptoms, the cause may simply be food.

• Stool color can change temporarily and usually returns to normal after these foods are fully digested.

Some foods can turn stool red

• Beets, blood sausage, dark berries, or foods containing red food coloring can make stool red or dark red.

• Therefore, before worrying about blood in stool, recall the foods you have eaten in the past 1-2 days.

• If the red color continues despite stopping these foods or if clearly visible fresh blood is present, seek medical attention to determine the cause.

Some foods can make stool dark or black

• Black licorice, blueberries, and some dark-colored foods can make stool dark.

• However, stool that is black and tarry, sticky, and has a very distinct odor may be a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding and should not be assumed to be due to food.

Medications and supplements can also affect stool color

• Iron supplements or medications can often turn stool dark green or black.

• Activated charcoal can also make stool black.

• Some bismuth-containing medications, such as Pepto-Bismol, can temporarily turn the tongue or stool black.

Monitor if unsure about bleeding

• If stool changes color but there is no abdominal pain, dizziness, weakness, or other abnormal signs, monitor stool color during subsequent bowel movements.

• If anal bleeding, blood in stool, or abnormal black stool is prolonged, recurrent, or accompanied by other symptoms, it should be evaluated by a doctor instead of self-diagnosing based solely on color.

Part 2: When should you see a doctor for blood in stool?

Note 1: When to seek medical attention for anal bleeding?

You should see a doctor when anal bleeding occurs

• Any unexplained anal bleeding, especially when recurrent or prolonged, should be evaluated by a doctor.

• You can start by contacting your primary care physician or a gastroenterologist to find the cause of blood in stool.

• Do not assume bleeding is due to hemorrhoids without examination, as many digestive conditions can cause similar symptoms.

Emergency care is needed if black or dark red stool is accompanied by severe symptoms

• Black and tarry or dark red stool may be related to gastrointestinal bleeding and requires urgent evaluation, especially when accompanied by other abnormal signs.

• Go to the emergency room immediately if blood in stool is accompanied by sharp or severe, unremitting pain.

• If the skin becomes pale, cold, and sweaty during bleeding, this could be a sign that the body is losing a significant amount of blood.

Pay attention to signs indicating the body is affected

• Seek emergency care if anal bleeding is accompanied by shortness of breath, blurred vision, lightheadedness, feeling faint, or severe nausea.

• These symptoms can occur with significant blood loss or affected blood pressure and should not be left to improve on their own.

Confusion or urinary retention are also warning signs

• If you are experiencing bloody stools and become confused, abnormally cold, or unable to urinate, seek urgent medical attention.

• In situations where significant bleeding is suspected, do not drive yourself. Ask someone to take you to a medical facility or call for an ambulance if the situation is severe.

Do not delay if symptoms worsen

• A few small streaks of blood can stem from common problems like hemorrhoids or anal fissures, but the severity cannot be determined solely by the color or amount of blood.

• If bloody stools become more frequent, continuous, or accompanied by abdominal pain, fever, dizziness, fainting, or weakness, prioritize safety by seeking medical attention early.

Note 2: Anal examination for bloody stools

Direct examination helps identify the cause of bleeding

• When you have bloody stools or unexplained anal bleeding, the doctor may start by examining the anal and rectal area.

• The goal is to detect common causes such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, mucosal damage, or foreign objects.

• Depending on symptoms and medical history, the doctor may order additional stool tests or more specialized examinations.

Digital rectal examination is a simple procedure

• The doctor may wear gloves and gently insert a finger into the rectum to check the inside.

• Through the examination, the doctor can assess the condition of the mucosa, detect abnormal masses, painful areas, bleeding, or signs of hemorrhoids.

• The procedure usually takes a short time. You might feel a little uncomfortable or embarrassed, but this is a routine part of evaluating bloody stools.

The doctor may also examine the abdominal area

• In addition to an anal examination, the doctor may gently press on different areas of the abdomen to check for pain, bloating, or abnormal masses.

• Information from this examination helps the doctor assess whether anal bleeding is related to problems in other parts of the digestive tract.

• Inform your doctor if you have abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, weight loss, or persistent digestive symptoms.

Don't hesitate to communicate with your doctor

• Feelings of embarrassment or anxiety are understandable, but bloody stools are a common medical symptom, and doctors frequently perform related examinations.

• You should clearly describe the color and amount of blood, when it appears, any pain during defecation, and accompanying symptoms.

• This information helps the doctor determine the appropriate examination approach and avoid missing important causes.

Note 3: Blood and stool tests when necessary

Tests help find the cause of bloody stools

• If the cause of bloody stools is not identified after the initial anal and rectal examination, the doctor may order blood tests, stool tests, or both.

• This is an important supportive step when bloody stools are prolonged, recurrent, or accompanied by other abnormal symptoms.

• Not all cases require all tests; the doctor will choose based on symptoms, medical history, and examination results.

Blood tests help assess blood loss

• A complete blood count can help detect anemia due to prolonged or significant bleeding.

• Depending on the case, the doctor may also check indicators related to blood clotting ability to assess the risk of abnormal anal bleeding.

• If you are taking anticoagulants or medications that affect blood clotting, provide full information to your doctor.

Stool tests can provide additional clues

• Stool samples can be tested for hidden blood in the stool and signs suggesting infection or inflammation of the digestive tract.

• In cases of bloody stools accompanied by diarrhea, abdominal pain, or fever, a stool test can help the doctor find the appropriate cause.

• Test results must be combined with symptoms and examinations; a single indicator should not be interpreted in isolation.

Time to receive results depends on the type of test

• Some tests can provide quick results, while tests requiring specialized analysis or external lab submission may take longer.

• While waiting for results, if anal bleeding increases or you experience dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath, severe abdominal pain, or black stools, contact a medical facility immediately instead of waiting for results.

Note 4: When is a colonoscopy needed?

Colonoscopy helps identify the source of bleeding

• When the cause of bloody stools is unclear after the initial examination, the doctor may order a colonoscopy to directly visualize the inside of the colon and rectum.

• The doctor uses a small, flexible tube with a camera inserted through the anus to examine the mucous membrane, looking for bleeding sites, polyps, inflammation, ulcers, or other abnormal lesions.

• Depending on the case, the doctor may take tissue samples or treat certain lesions during the colonoscopy.

Not everyone with anal bleeding needs a colonoscopy

• The indication for colonoscopy depends on age, amount and duration of anal bleeding, accompanying symptoms, medical history, and initial examination results.

• If the cause appears clear and the risk is low, the doctor may choose to monitor or use other examination methods first.

• Therefore, you should not self-diagnose the need for a colonoscopy based solely on blood color or a single instance of bloody stools.

Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy may be needed in some cases

• If the doctor suspects the bleeding source is in the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum, an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy may be ordered.

• This procedure uses a flexible tube with a camera inserted through the mouth to visualize the upper part of the digestive tract.

• The choice between colonoscopy and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy depends on the clinical presentation and the suspected location of the bleeding.

Discuss colorectal cancer screening

• A single age guideline for everyone should not be applied. According to current guidelines, adults at average risk are generally recommended to begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45.

• If there is a family history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or other risk factors, the timing and method of screening may differ.

• If you are experiencing bloody stools, this is considered a symptom that requires evaluation of its cause, and routine screening should not be considered a substitute for medical examination when symptoms are present.

Note 5: Treatment according to the correct cause

Treatment of anal bleeding must be based on the cause

• After identifying the cause of bloody stools, the doctor will develop a treatment plan appropriate to the severity of the disease and the location of the bleeding.

• For mild causes such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures, treatment may focus on softening stools, increasing fiber intake, drinking enough water, and using topical medications when indicated.

• If anal bleeding stems from a more serious condition, you should not self-treat at home but rather follow the doctor's plan.

Some cases require specialized intervention

• If a tumor or high-risk lesion is found, the doctor may consider surgery or specialized treatment methods depending on the diagnosis.

• Some cases of bleeding due to digestive tract lesions may require procedures to stop the bleeding or directly treat the lesion.

• The specific treatment method depends on the cause, severity of bleeding, overall health, and test results.

Medication may be used when appropriate

• Depending on the cause, the doctor may prescribe medication to help reduce inflammation, control symptoms, or treat the underlying condition causing the bleeding.

• If the cause is related to ulcers or certain stomach conditions, acid-reducing medications may be used to aid in the healing process.

• You should not buy medication yourself just to stop bleeding during defecation, as symptom reduction does not equate to addressing the cause.

Adjust diet according to the condition

• Some digestive diseases may require dietary changes during different stages of treatment, but you should not strictly diet without a diagnosis.

• For constipation or hemorrhoids, increasing fiber and drinking enough water usually helps soften stools, thereby reducing straining during bowel movements.

• If you have specific conditions like celiac disease, a gluten-free diet should be followed under professional guidance.

Monitor treatment response and follow up as scheduled

• Inform your doctor if bloody stools continue to appear, the amount of blood increases, or if you experience additional abdominal pain, fever, dizziness, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss.

• Do not stop medication, change dosage, or switch to another treatment method without consulting your doctor.

• Effective treatment is not just about stopping anal bleeding, but more importantly, identifying and controlling the underlying condition behind the symptom.

Part 3: How to treat mild bloody stools at home

Method 1: Use medication as directed

Use medication for the correct cause of bleeding

• After identifying the cause of bloody stools, the doctor may prescribe one or more medications depending on the specific condition.

• The goal of treatment may be to soften stools, relieve pain, control inflammation, support anemia treatment, or reduce anal bleeding.

• You should not self-medicate to stop bleeding without knowing the cause, as this may mask symptoms of a condition that needs treatment.

Stool softeners help reduce straining during bowel movements

• If bloody stools are related to constipation, hard stools, or anal fissures, the doctor may recommend stool softeners or measures to help stools pass more easily.

• Combining adequate water intake and appropriate fiber supplementation can support the treatment process.

• Do not overuse laxatives without guidance, especially if constipation is prolonged.

Pain relievers are used as needed

• Some people may need pain medication when anal bleeding is accompanied by pain or discomfort.

• Use the correct type, dosage, and duration as instructed by your doctor.

• If you are bleeding or taking anticoagulants, consult your doctor or pharmacist before self-medicating with pain relievers, as some medications can increase the risk of bleeding.

Iron supplementation for anemia

• If tests show anemia due to blood loss, the doctor may prescribe iron supplements to help restore iron levels and red blood cell production.

• You should not take iron on your own just because you see bloody stools, as anemia needs to be confirmed by appropriate evaluation.

• Iron supplementation can also darken stools, so discuss this with your doctor if it's difficult to distinguish stool color due to medication from signs of bleeding.

Hemorrhoid medication can help relieve symptoms

• If the cause is hemorrhoids, the doctor may prescribe creams or ointments for the anal area to reduce pain, itching, and inflammation.

• Some corticosteroid preparations may be used for a short time to reduce inflammation, but prolonged self-use is not recommended as it can cause local side effects.

• If anal bleeding does not decrease or frequently recurs despite treatment, a follow-up examination is needed to re-evaluate the cause and treatment approach.

Method 2: Increase fiber to reduce bleeding

Increasing fiber helps soften stools and makes them easier to pass

• For bloody stools related to constipation, hard stools, or anal fissures, increasing fiber is one of the fundamental measures to reduce straining during defecation.

• Adults should generally aim for about 25–30g of fiber per day, depending on their needs and health status.

• When stools are softer and easier to pass, pressure on the anal area decreases, thereby allowing damaged tissues time to heal.

Prioritize natural fiber-rich foods

• Legumes like lentils, chickpeas, and peas are easy options to add to meals.

• Fruits like apples and pears should be eaten with the skin if properly washed.

• You can choose oats, whole-wheat bread, whole-grain pasta, and other whole grains.

• It's best to combine multiple food groups rather than focusing on just one fiber source.

Increase fiber gradually to avoid bloating

• If your diet was previously low in fiber, gradually increase fiber intake rather than making sudden changes.

• Increasing too quickly can cause bloating, gas, or gastrointestinal discomfort.

• At the same time, drinking enough water helps fiber work more effectively and aids in softening stools.

Consider psyllium if it's difficult to get enough fiber

• Psyllium is a type of soluble fiber that can absorb water and create softer stool bulk, which can be helpful for some people with constipation.

• If using fiber supplements, drink enough water and follow the dosage instructions on the product or as advised by a healthcare professional.

• If anal bleeding continues despite improved constipation and diet, simply increasing fiber is not enough; the specific cause needs to be investigated.

Fiber does not replace medical examination when warning signs are present

• Fiber is especially helpful when bloody stools are associated with hard stools and straining, but it cannot treat all causes of rectal bleeding.

• If blood appears frequently, recurs, stools are black, or you experience severe abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, or unintentional weight loss, seek early medical evaluation.

Method 3: Drink enough water to reduce constipation

Drinking enough water helps soften stools and makes them easier to pass

• When the body is dehydrated, stools can become dry and hard, causing you to strain more during bowel movements.

• Hard stools can increase the risk of anal fissures, irritate hemorrhoids, and make bloody stools more likely to appear or persist.

• Staying hydrated daily helps soften stool, especially when you are increasing your fiber intake.

The amount of water needed varies from person to person.

• Fluid needs depend on age, gender, activity level, weather, diet, and health status.

• A commonly used reference is a total fluid intake from drinks and food of about 2.7 liters/day for adult women and 3.7 liters/day for adult men.

• This is the total fluid from various sources, not to imply that everyone must drink exactly this much plain water every day.

Actively replenish fluids throughout the day.

• Drink water regularly instead of waiting until you are thirsty.

• When exercising a lot, in hot weather, or sweating heavily, fluid needs may increase.

• If you are increasing fiber to improve bloody stools due to constipation, pay special attention to adequate fluid intake to prevent dry and hard stools.

Combine water intake with good bowel habits.

• Water is only one part of preventing constipation. Combine it with a fiber-rich diet, regular exercise, and not holding in bowel movements.

• When stool is soft and bowel movements are smoother, pressure on the anal area is reduced, which can limit irritation and anal bleeding related to hemorrhoids or fissures.

• If bloody stools continue to recur despite improving constipation, the cause needs to be identified rather than just increasing water intake.

Method 4: Monitor mild bleeding from hemorrhoids

Monitor only after a mild cause has been identified.

• If a doctor has determined that bloody stools are due to an anal fissure or hemorrhoids and the amount of blood is small, the bleeding may decrease after a bowel movement and improve on its own.

• However, you should not assume that all cases of anal bleeding are hemorrhoids or anal fissures.

• If blood continues to appear, the amount of blood increases, or symptoms change, a follow-up examination is needed.

Allow the anal area time to recover.

• Avoid straining during bowel movements and do not sit on the toilet for long periods.

• Keep stools soft by consuming enough fiber and drinking enough water.

• These measures help reduce pressure on the anal area, thereby limiting irritation and supporting the healing process.

Eat appropriately to prevent constipation.

• Prioritize green vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains to maintain an appropriate fiber intake.

• Limit foods that you notice often cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation.

• If bloody stools are related to hard stools, maintaining a diverse and fiber-rich diet can help reduce straining.

Know when not to continue waiting.

• Do not simply monitor at home if anal bleeding persists or recurs frequently.

• Seek early medical attention if black stools, dark red blood, severe abdominal pain, fever, dizziness, fainting, severe fatigue, or unintentional weight loss occur.

• The goal is not only to stop bloody stools but, more importantly, to ensure that the cause of the bleeding has been identified and managed appropriately.

Method 5: Use cream for hemorrhoids

Over-the-counter creams can be used to relieve discomfort.

• If bloody stools due to hemorrhoids or anal fissures have been identified, over-the-counter topical creams can help relieve itching, pain, and irritation in the anal area.

• Some products contain hydrocortisone to reduce inflammation, while other ingredients may help reduce pain or discomfort.

• Topical creams primarily help control symptoms and do not replace treatment for the underlying cause of anal bleeding.

Do not self-administer cream for prolonged periods.

• If bloody stools persist after a few days or recur frequently, seek medical attention instead of continuing to self-medicate.

• Prolonged use of topical corticosteroids can cause skin thinning or other side effects in the application area.

• Do not apply products to severely damaged skin or use them in ways other than directed on the label.

Consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.

• If the cause of anal bleeding has not been identified, discuss it with a healthcare professional before using topical creams.

• The doctor can select a suitable product based on the cause, severity of inflammation, skin condition, and other medications you are taking.

• If symptoms are severe or do not respond to over-the-counter medications, the doctor may consider prescription medications or other treatment methods.

Monitor reaction after application.

• Some products may cause a mild burning or stinging sensation immediately after use.

• If burning sensation persists, swelling, rash, or increased irritation occurs, discontinue use and consult a doctor.

• If anal bleeding increases, a large amount of blood appears, or is accompanied by dizziness, severe abdominal pain, or weakness, seek immediate medical attention.

Method 6: Do not strain during bowel movements

Stop straining when stool is difficult to pass.

• When experiencing bloody stools, avoid excessive straining or force to push out stool.

• Straining increases pressure on the blood vessels in the anal area, which can worsen hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or anal bleeding.

• If you cannot have a bowel movement yet, stop and try again when your body has a natural urge instead of forcing it.

Do not sit on the toilet for prolonged periods.

• Allow enough time for bowel movements but avoid sitting for too long, especially when you no longer feel the urge to go.

• Avoid using your phone or doing other activities while on the toilet, which can extend the time spent there.

• This habit helps limit prolonged pressure on the anal area and helps reduce the risk of worsening hemorrhoid symptoms.

Return to the toilet when needed.

• If stool has not passed completely or there is no clear urge for a bowel movement, you can leave the toilet and try again when your body gives a natural signal.

• Combine adequate water intake, sufficient fiber, and regular exercise to help soften stools and make them easier to pass.

• If bloody stools persist despite avoiding straining and improving constipation, seek medical attention to determine the cause.

Do not strain if pain or severe bleeding occurs.

• If anal pain increases rapidly, anal bleeding is heavy, or is accompanied by dizziness, weakness, black stools, or severe abdominal pain, seek early medical evaluation.

• Stopping straining is only a supportive measure and does not replace diagnosis and treatment when bloody stools result from a medical condition requiring intervention.

Do not be complacent about bloody stools.

Rectal bleeding has many causes.

• Bloody stools can result from common causes such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures, especially when the blood is bright red and appears in small amounts.

• However, anal bleeding can also be a symptom of colorectal diseases, so do not self-diagnose based solely on the color or amount of blood.

• Colorectal cancer is one cause that needs to be ruled out, especially when bleeding recurs or is accompanied by changes in bowel habits, anemia, abdominal pain, or unintentional weight loss.

Blood appearing only when wiping is often related to the anal area.

• If you see bright red blood on toilet paper but no blood mixed in the stool, the bleeding source is usually near the anus, such as hemorrhoids or an anal fissure.

• This is a common symptom and does not necessarily mean cancer, but it still requires attention if the condition persists or recurs.

• Do not consider blood appearing only when wiping as conclusive evidence that the cause is entirely benign.

Know when to seek medical attention.

• If bloody stools occur multiple times, persist, or the amount of blood increases, seek medical attention to determine the cause.

• Pay special attention to prolonged changes in bowel habits, abnormally narrow stools, abdominal pain, fatigue, anemia, or unintentional weight loss.

• If severe bleeding occurs with dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath, cold or pale skin, emergency care is needed instead of continued monitoring at home.

References

1. American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons. (2024). The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Hemorrhoids. Diseases of the Colon & Rectum, 67(5), 614–623.
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5. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2024). Hemorrhoids: Symptoms & Causes. National Institutes of Health.
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8. U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. (2021). Screening for Colorectal Cancer: US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement. JAMA, 325(19), 1965–1977.
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Content edited by: Rene Lee Nguyen.

Information consulted and verified by expert: Daniel Carter.