Rectal Bleeding
Assessment and treatment of rectal bleeding from all causes
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Overview
Rectal bleeding is very common and can arise from several conditions — many of which are benign. Although the symptom can be alarming, the underlying causes often include haemorrhoids, fissures, inflammation, or polyps.
Rectal bleeding should always be evaluated, especially if persistent or associated with other symptoms. Assessment may include clinical examination, colonoscopy, blood tests, and anoscopy or sigmoidoscopy.
Possible Causes
- Haemorrhoids
- Anal fissure
- Diverticular disease
- Polyps
- Colorectal cancer
- Inflammatory bowel disease
Treatment Strategies
- Haemorrhoids — banding, HAL-RAR, or excisional haemorrhoidectomy
- Fissures — topical therapy; botox injections, or occasionally surgery
- Polyps — removal at colonoscopy
- Inflammation — medical therapy
- Suspicious lesions — bowel resection