Why does rectal cancer cause blood in stool?

The rectum is the final part of the large bowel, so bleeding from this area may appear as bright red blood on the stool, toilet paper, or in the toilet. Blood can also be mixed with stool. A growth can narrow the passage or change the bowel's normal lining, which may cause altered bowel habit, straining, a feeling of incomplete emptying, or mucus. Blood in Stool is a very common presentation of Rectal Cancer. However, bleeding has many possible causes, including haemorrhoids, fissures, inflammation, and bowel polyps.

Arrange a medical appointment for new, recurrent, or unexplained blood in stool. Note the colour and pattern of bleeding, changes in bowel habit, abdominal discomfort, tiredness, weight change, and any relevant family history. A clinician may examine the area and discuss tests that look at the rectum and bowel. Avoid assuming the cause based on the blood's appearance alone.

Seek emergency care for heavy or ongoing bleeding, black tar-like stool, fainting, severe weakness, confusion, or severe abdominal pain. Get urgent medical advice if bleeding is accompanied by persistent vomiting, a swollen abdomen, or inability to pass stool or gas.

Ask what may be causing the bleeding, whether an examination or bowel test is needed, how soon it should happen, and which changes should prompt urgent care.