What causes rectal bleeding?

Rectal bleeding can be bright red (hematachezia) to dark, maroon colored (melena). The most common cause of rectal bleeding is hemorrhoids which cause bright red bleeding and are generally not painful although occasionally associated with pain that dissipates.

Don’t fear, most rectal bleeding is benign and treatable

Possible Causes of Rectal Bleeding

  • Hemorhoids (most common)
  • Fissures
  • Proctitis
  • Colitis
  • Polyps
  • Colonic tumors

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