Rectal bleeding when you see no blood in stool

Blood that drips into the bowl, coats stool, or appears only when wiping can be released from tissue close to the opening. Straining, hard stool, irritation, or swollen veins can contribute. The pattern does not identify the cause on its own.

Bleeding can also occur with bowel inflammation, Diverticular Disease, or a bowel growth. Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis may bring diarrhoea, urgency, mucus, or abdominal symptoms alongside bleeding.

Check whether the colour is bright red, maroon, or black, and note whether it follows a bowel movement or occurs independently. Keep a record of stool texture, frequency, pain, diarrhoea, mucus, fever, and any medicine that affects clotting.

Book an appointment for new, recurrent, or unexplained bleeding. A clinician may inspect the anal area and choose tests based on your symptoms and history. If a polyp is found, Polyp Removal may be discussed.

Use emergency services for heavy bleeding, repeated clots, fainting, severe weakness, black stool, severe abdominal pain, or vomiting blood. Seek prompt care for fever with abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen, or trouble passing stool or gas.

Ask whether the bleeding pattern suggests a local source, whether you need an examination or blood test, and how soon to review the result. Tell the clinician about blood-thinning medicines and previous bowel problems.