What should you know about blood in stool and vomiting?

Bright red blood on toilet paper can arise near the anus, while blood mixed into stool or maroon stool may come from farther inside the bowel. Black, sticky stool can represent digested blood. Vomiting may accompany an infection such as Gastroenteritis, but blood in vomit or dark granular material raises concern for upper digestive bleeding. Diverticular Disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and other bowel conditions can cause rectal bleeding; the pattern and examination matter.

Arrange prompt assessment, even if the amount seems small. Note the timing, colour, texture, and recurrence of the stool and vomit. Mention abdominal pain, fever, diarrhoea, dizziness, faintness, and medicines including aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, or anticoagulants. Sip clear fluids if vomiting has stopped and you can keep them down. Do not take leftover medicines or stop prescribed treatment without advice.

Get emergency help for vomiting blood, black tar-like stool, fainting, confusion, marked weakness, severe pain, breathlessness, or cold clammy skin. Ongoing vomiting, increasing blood, or inability to drink safely also warrants immediate care. Have someone stay with you if you feel light-headed.

Where could the bleeding be coming from? Do my medicines affect the risk? Should I have blood, stool, or digestive-tract tests? What should I do if the bleeding returns?