Rectal Bleeding |
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DESCRIPTION
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The rectum is the last part of the bowel; just inside the anus. Bleeding in the rectum can range from mild to life-threatening.
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CAUSES
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Bleeding can be caused by rips in the lining of the rectum; infection; hemorrhoids (HEM-uh-roids), which are swollen veins of the rectum; polyps (POL-ips), which are lumps of tissue that bulge out from the lining; or tumors.
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SYMPTOMS
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Typically, you will notice bright red blood coming out of the rectum or appearing on the stool. Blood may be found in a test of the stool. Other possible symptoms are dizziness, light-headedness, or fainting from loss of blood.
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CARE
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Depends on the cause of bleeding. You may need surgery or other treatment to stop the bleeding. You may be given antibiotic medicine to treat an infection. If there is a lot of bleeding, you may need a blood transfusion.
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COMPLICATIONS
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s Without treatment, you may continue to bleed and may even die.
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