Rectal Bleeding
When a patient experiences rectal bleeding for the first time, it can be quite startling and alarming. It is important for patients to know that the most common causes of rectal bleeding are not serious at all. However, it is a symptom that should always be examined by a professional so the exact cause can be determined and treated. At the Colorectal Center Los Angeles, our expert gastroenterologists have spent years diagnosing and treating a wide variety of colorectal conditions. Because rectal bleeding is not the easiest condition to face, their primary goal is peace of mind and comfort for their patients. If you are looking for effective treatment for rectal bleeding in Los Angeles, please call our office today and set an appointment.
Causes of rectal bleeding
Despite its name, rectal bleeding can stem from any area of the digestive tract—not just the rectum. The telltale sign is the color of the blood—the darker the blood, the further it has traveled before reaching the anus. Because of this, the method of treatment for rectal bleeding varies. If the cause of rectal bleeding is an anal tear, the blood will be bright red or pink. If the cause is inflammatory bowel disease deep in the bowels, the blood will be much darker.
The primary causes of rectal bleeding include:
Anal fissure
An anal fissure is a tear in the lining of the anus. It is a common condition that rarely leads to more serious conditions. In many cases, anal fissures will go away with simple home remedies after several weeks. When they persist, it may be necessary to see a professional for anal fissure treatment.
Read more »Anal fistula
An anal fistula is a canal that develops between the interior of the rectum and the outer skin around the anus. It is subcutaneous, meaning it forms underneath the skin. In many cases, a fistula is a single canal, while others can branch out into multiple openings in the skin.
Read more »Crohn’s disease
Crohn's disease is one of the few conditions categorized as an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Crohn's disease is diagnosed by its qualities instead of its location, because it can affect different areas of the digestive tract depending upon the patient.
Read more »Ulcerative colitis
Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the digestive tract. Its effects are long lasting and the disease is considered a chronic condition. Its symptoms develop over time, as opposed to Crohn's disease in which they can develop suddenly and without warning.
Read more »Hemorrhoids
A hemorrhoid is a swollen vein that can occur in or near the anal canal. While hemorrhoids can be painful, they are usually not a serious condition. They can develop within the anal canal, known as internal hemorrhoids. They can also occur near the opening of the anus, called external hemorrhoids.
Read more »Colorectal cancer
Cancer can affect either the colon or the rectum—when it affects both simultaneously, it is called colorectal cancer. Through rapid diagnosis and effective treatment options, our top priority is ensuring that patients of colorectal cancer get the treatment they need.
Read more »Diagnosis
At the Colorectal Center Los Angeles, our first concern is accurate diagnosis of rectal bleeding. We know that rectal bleeding can be a source of distress, and diagnosis can help patients understand the condition and take control. Once a diagnosis has been made, our colorectal experts will create a customized treatment plan to help patients of rectal bleeding find total relief. If you are experiencing rectal bleeding and are looking for a safe, comfortable treatment destination, look no further than the Colorectal Center Los Angeles. We work hard to give you a comfortable environment in which to receive among the most effective treatment for rectal bleeding Los Angeles offers.
