NiHowdy > Everyday Health Concerns > Blood in stool or dark stools

Browse Medications by Everyday Health Concerns: Blood in stool or dark stools

Written by Amar Lunagaria

Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder

Reviewed by James Wong

Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder

Updated Jan 27, 2025

•

Published Jan 15, 2025

Fact checked

What are Blood in stool or dark stools?

Seeing blood in your stool or noticing that your stool appears dark can be concerning. This can indicate a range of conditions, from minor issues like hemorrhoids to more serious conditions such as gastrointestinal bleeding. Understanding the cause is key to addressing it and maintaining your health.

Symptoms of Blood in stool or dark stools

Common symptoms include:

Bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl
Dark, tarry stools (which may indicate blood that has been digested)
Abdominal pain or cramping
Feeling weak or faint
Unexplained weight loss

What causes Blood in stool or dark stools?

Possible causes include:

Hemorrhoids or anal fissures (which often cause bright red blood)
Gastric ulcers or stomach bleeding
Diverticulosis (pouches in the colon that can bleed)
Inflammatory bowel diseases (e.g., Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis)
Colon cancer or polyps
Peptic ulcers or gastritis (causing dark, tarry stools)

Risk factors for Blood in stool or dark stools

You may be at higher risk if you:

Are over 50 or have a family history of colorectal cancer
Have inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
Are pregnant or have recently given birth (due to hemorrhoids)
Are taking medications like blood thinners or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Have had previous gastrointestinal issues, such as ulcers or diverticulosis

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How are Blood in stool or dark stools diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves:

A physical examination and review of your symptoms
Stool tests to check for blood or infection
Endoscopy (e.g., colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy) to examine the colon or rectum
Imaging tests like a CT scan or abdominal ultrasound
Blood tests to check for anemia or signs of infection

How are Blood in stool or dark stools treated?

Treatment depends on the cause of the blood in the stool:

Hemorrhoids or anal fissures can be treated with topical creams or sitz baths
Ulcers may be treated with medications to reduce stomach acid
Inflammatory bowel diseases may require anti-inflammatory medications or immunosuppressants
Surgery may be necessary for serious conditions like colon cancer or large polyps
Blood transfusions or other interventions for severe bleeding

Medications for Blood in stool or dark stools

Medications commonly used include:

Antacids or proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole)
Anti-inflammatory drugs for inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., mesalamine)
Antibiotics if an infection is present

Can Blood in stool or dark stools be prevented?

While not all causes can be prevented, you can reduce your risk by:

Eating a high-fiber diet to prevent constipation
Staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy weight
Avoiding excessive use of alcohol or NSAIDs
Getting regular screenings if you are over 50 or have a family history of colon cancer
Managing stress and avoiding smoking

Managing Blood in stool or dark stools at home

Eat fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Drink plenty of water to keep stools soft
Avoid straining during bowel movements
Use over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams or pads for relief if hemorrhoids are the cause
Apply warm compresses to relieve pain from hemorrhoids

When should you seek help for Blood in stool or dark stools?

Seek medical help if:

You see blood in your stool or have dark, tarry stools
You experience significant abdominal pain or cramping
You feel faint, weak, or dizzy
You notice unexplained weight loss or fatigue
You have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps

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How NiHowdy helps with Blood in stool or dark stools

NiHowdy offers savings on medications for conditions that cause blood in stool or dark stools, including ulcer treatments, anti-inflammatory drugs, and probiotics. By using NiHowdy, you can manage your health without worrying about high medication costs.

Success stories with Blood in stool or dark stools

Emma had been dealing with dark stools due to an ulcer, causing her significant discomfort. After using NiHowdy, she saved on her medication, which helped her get the treatment she needed. With the savings, she was able to stay consistent with her treatment plan, improving her overall health and well-being.

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*NiHowdy's prescription pricing is derived from various sources. While we strive to provide accurate estimates, the displayed price may not always match the pharmacy's charge. For precise pricing, please consult your pharmacy and present the BIN/GRP/PCN numbers from your NiHowdy coupon.