I took laxatives because ive had constipation but when they worked there was blood. it wasnt in the stool but next to it. it was bright red and there was some when i wiped too. should i be worried? this is the first time its happened?

No, don't worry: Sounds like the passage of the hard stool causecactiny little tear by your rectum/anus called a rectal fissure. These create symptoms exactly as you describe. If it is RECURRENT, you might also have some hemorrhoids . You need to work at increasing fiber in your daily diet and drink more fluids. These will help soften your stools, allowing fissure to heal. For now, soak in warm water in tub.