What does it mean if there is blood in my stool?

Any # of things: All of which your doctor can help you with! blood in the stool can range from hemorrhoids to inflammatory bowel disease to cancer to many other things. The history and a physical exam are critical here. I would ask your doctor to help you figure out what to do next!

Bunch of things C MD: Visible blood in the stool can be from hemorrhoids, inflammation, polyps, diverticulosis (pockets in wall), fragile blood vessels, poor blood flow to bowel; uncommonly from higher up in the gut (major bleed). Occult (not visible, but chem tested +), can be all of the above plus other causes. See your doc to find out what and where it is from.

Depends: Most often its a hemorrhoid, but depending on several factors such as age and other conditions, can be sign of dangerous issues. Drink less caffieine, more water, take fiber supplement for 2 wks, if worsens, changes, or doesnt go away, seek medical attention.

Stool blood: Blood, especially mixed in stool is abnormal and must be checked. Possibilities include hemorrhoids, anal fissure, divericulosis, tumors, inflammatory bowel disease, trauma from hard stool. Your physician will take a history, examine you and then order appropriate tests if deemed advisable.

Blood in stools.: There are different levels of blood in stools. Occult blood: blood in stool, but not see with the naked eyes (can only be detected with heme occult cards). Overt bleed is when you see bright red blood (hemorrhaging) in stools. You are 45 and have blood in stools, suggest colonoscopy to make sure no colon cancer. There are other more benign causes for blood in stool.

Hemorrhoid/fissure: At your age, without a family history of polyposis or colon cancer, it probably means either a hemorrhoid or an anal fissure from constipation if it is bright red. If it is not bright red, the bleeding could be from further up in the GI tract. Please see your physician to find out.

It means: that you must immiately see your hysician for blood testing and a rectal exam to rule out underlying pathology.