How blood in the stool may relate to colorectal cancer

Bleeding in the stool occurs when there is damage or irritation in the colon or rectum. This can be due to tumors, ulcers, or even small tears in the digestive lining. In the case of colorectal cancer, tumors grow which cause inflammation or rupture in the blood vessels, leading to visible or hidden bleeding.

Types of Blood in Stool

• Bright Red Blood – This suggests bleeding from the lower digestive tract, such as the rectum or colon. May appear as streaks on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl.
• Dark, Tarry Stools – This indicates bleeding from higher in the digestive tract, where blood has been mixed with the stool, giving it a dark, tar-like appearance.
• Occult (hidden) blood – Invisible to the naked eye but detectable through stool tests.

Since hidden blood can only be detected through chemical testing, a Fecal Occult Blood Test is highly recommended as part of health screenings. This simple step involves collecting two samples on two different days. Multiple collection is required since hidden blood is not always present in every bowel movement.

Other Symptoms to Watch Out For

Blood in the stool often appears alongside other symptoms of colorectal cancer, such as:

• Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or narrow stools)
• Persistent abdominal pain or cramping
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue and weakness
• A feeling of incomplete bowel movements

Confirming the Cause: Colonoscopy

While blood in stool is a concerning sign, it can also indicate other conditions like hemorrhoids, anal fissures, diverticulosis, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). That’s why proper medical evaluation is essential.

One of the most effective ways to confirm if bleeding is due to colorectal cancer is through a colonoscopy. This procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera into the colon to examine its lining for abnormalities. 

At Shinagawa Diagnostic, patients have the option of having a colonoscopy along will a comprehensive executive checkup with the VIP Shinagawa Dock. This package ensures that you get a complete picture of your digestive health and overall well-being. For those who are concerned with colorectal cancer specifically, this package also comes with a CEA tumor marker blood test which detects cancer cells in your blood for guaranteed accuracy.