So you have experienced seeing a little streak of blood upon the toilet paper. You may think that it’s just a little blood from an anal fissure since the bowel movement was a little more difficult than usual. However, later on you noticed sitting down was uncomfortable, and still later you felt the need to itch the area. After a lot of searching, you have decided your problem may actually be a bleeding hemorrhoid.
In most cases, this is true and with a little home treatment and possibly medication, the problem can be eradicated. However, there are certain times when this is not the problem. Instead, it can be something more serious. So how will you know if they all involve the same symptoms? It can be a little difficult, but there are certain things to look out for that are not related to a hemorrhoid problem. Pay close attention so you will know whether or not to contact your physician.
Normally, bleeding hemorrhoids will leave blood upon the toilet paper after wiping and occasionally on the stool itself. However, if you notice bleeding even when you are not in the bathroom, something else is going on and you should inform a doctor. Likewise, if you notice anything unusual exiting the anus either on or out of the bathroom such as discolored material, mucus, or pus. These are usually indications that a more serious problem is occurring in your intestine and should be examined as soon as possible.
Changes in stool are a good indicator that something other than bleeding hemorrhoids is happening in your body, as they will not have any effect on the waste itself. When using the bathroom and you notice stools are more narrow than usual, such as the thinness of a pencil, be on the alert. Should stools abruptly change color or texture, such as becoming black or tarry, you may need to seek medical advice.
Symptoms other than discomfort or itchiness and that are not associated with another illness (such as catching the flu at the same time) may also be an indicator. A fever coupled with bloody stools, or sensing a lump in the area of the anus that is painful and does not go away after home treatment and medication. If you are older than 50 or have a family history of rectal problems, you should consult your physician.
There are conditions such as colon polyps, anal fistulae, and others that can masquerade as hemorrhoids. If nothing you do is working, ask your doctor. He or she can perform the necessary exams and tests that allow the two of you to seek out alternative options. From there you should be able to find the answer to the problem.