Rectal Bleeding

Blood in the stool can be caused by hemorrhoids or anal fissure, but more serious conditions include polyps, cancer, colitis, and stomach ulcers.

Minor rectal bleeding means a few drops of bright red blood in the stool or toilet paper. Larger amounts of blood, especially if the blood is black or dark red, should be assessed immediately. Some conditions can be more serious, so blood in the stool should always be evaluated by your doctor.