Hemorrhoids and Red Stool - Understanding Bleeding and Treatment

Hemorrhoids are a common cause of red stool due to bleeding from swollen blood vessels in the rectum and anus. While often uncomfortable and concerning, hemorrhoid bleeding is usually treatable with proper care and lifestyle modifications.

Understanding Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen and inflamed blood vessels in the rectum and anus that can cause pain, itching, and bleeding. They're extremely common, affecting about half of adults over age 50, though they can occur at any age.

Types of Hemorrhoids

Internal Hemorrhoids:

• Located inside the rectum
• Usually painless but may bleed
• Can prolapse (protrude) outside anus
• Graded by severity (Grade 1-4)

External Hemorrhoids:

• Located under skin around anus
• Often painful and itchy
• Can form blood clots (thrombosed)
• Visible and palpable

Mixed Hemorrhoids:

• Combination of internal and external
• May have characteristics of both types

How Hemorrhoids Cause Red Stool

Bleeding Mechanism:

• Swollen blood vessels rupture easily
• Straining during bowel movements damages tissue
• Hard stools scrape against hemorrhoids
• Inflammation makes vessels fragile

Blood Appearance:

• Bright red blood: Fresh bleeding from anus/rectum
• Blood on toilet paper: After wiping
• Blood in toilet bowl: Dripping or coating water
• Blood coating stool: On surface of bowel movement