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Goshen, IN
A 71-year-old female asked:

No bm's for days;when bm comes, stool is hard at first, turns ribbon-like, then very soft, and then bright red blood. many trips to toilet. colonoscopy showed only benign polyp. what could cause this?

2 doctor answers2 doctors weighed in
Dr. Francisco R. Rodriguez
Urology 11 years experience
Constipation: What you may have is hard stools causing bleeding from internal hemorrhoids. You need to talk to your gastroenterologist and review your diet, eat more fiber and take stool softeners. At your age bowel habits change so do you.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Donald Jacobson
A Verified Doctoranswered
42 years experience
Rectal fissure: These symptoms are those of an anal or rectal fissure. It might not have been visible on the colonoscopy if it was not bleeding at the time. Have your GI doctor check you with an anoscope. If s/he refuses, feel free to seek a second opinion.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Francisco R. Rodriguez
Urology 11 years experience
Rectal fissures are usually painful, internal hemorrhoids bleed.
Sep 15, 2013
Last updated Aug 18, 2015

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