Wellness Tips & Medical Advice

Haemorrhoids are swollen veins in or around the anal canal and are a common cause of rectal bleeding. Bleeding may occur during bowel movements, especially with straining.

Seek medical review if:
Bleeding is frequent, persistent, or associated with pain or swelling.

Anal Fissures

Anal fissures are small tears in the lining of the anus, often caused by hard stools or constipation. They can cause sharp pain during bowel movements, followed by bright red bleeding.

Seek medical review if:
Pain or bleeding does not improve or keep recurring.

Diverticular Disease

Small pouches in the colon wall (diverticula) may bleed suddenly, most times without pain.
Medical assessment is recommended for any episode of suspected diverticular bleeding.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Conditions such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation, bleeding, and changes in bowel habits. Ongoing or worsening symptoms require specialist evaluation.

Colorectal Polyps or Cancer

Polyps or colorectal cancer can bleed, sometimes without obvious symptoms in the early stages. This is why rectal bleeding should always be properly evaluated, even if symptoms seem mild.

When Rectal Bleeding Needs Prompt Medical Attention

You should seek medical advice promptly if rectal bleeding occurs with:

• Persistent or recurrent bleeding
• Changes in bowel habits lasting more than a few weeks
• Abdominal pain or unexplained fatigue
• Unintended weight loss
• A personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps

Seek urgent medical care if you experience:

• Heavy or ongoing bleeding
• Dizziness, fainting, or shortness of breath
• Severe abdominal pain
• Black or tarry stools
• Fever or signs of infection

Should You See a GP or a Colorectal Surgeon?

A general practitioner may be suitable for mild or short-term symptoms. However, consultation with a colorectal surgeon may be recommended if:

• This is your first episode of massive bleeding
• Bleeding keeps coming back
• You are aged 45 or above
• You have additional symptoms such as bowel habit changes or anaemia
• You have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
• You require further evaluation beyond initial treatment

A colorectal surgeon specialises in conditions affecting the colon, rectum, and anus and can provide comprehensive evaluation and guidance.

Why Early Evaluation Matters

Rectal bleeding can be caused by benign conditions, but only proper medical assessment can confirm the cause. Early evaluation allows problems to be identified and early treatment can potentially prevent complications and improve survival rates especially in the setting of cancer diagnosis. Minimally invasive surgery can be offered to most cases except complicated or complex cases.

What to Expect During a Colorectal Consultation

At Sincere Surgery Centre, your consultation is focused on clarity, comfort, and careful assessment.
This may include:

1. A detailed medical history
   Discussion of symptoms, duration, lifestyle factors, and family history.
2. Physical examination
   A professional and respectful examination, if clinically indicated.
3. Diagnostic planning
   Depending on findings, your specialist may recommend:
   • Colonoscopy
   • Sigmoidoscopy
   • Proctoscopy
   • Imaging or other investigations
4. Clear explanation of next steps
   Findings and treatment options are explained so you can make informed decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is rectal bleeding serious?

Rectal bleeding can be caused by conditions such as haemorrhoids or anal fissures, but it may also signal more serious colorectal problems. Any episode of rectal bleeding should be medically evaluated to determine the cause and guide appropriate treatment.

Is bright red blood in stool less serious than dark blood?

Not necessarily. Bright red blood usually comes from the left sided colon , rectum or anus, while dark or black stools may indicate bleeding higher up the digestive tract. Both require medical assessment to determine the cause.

Can haemorrhoids cause rectal bleeding?

Yes. Haemorrhoids are a common cause of rectal bleeding, often appearing as bright red blood during or after bowel movements. However, bleeding should still be assessed by a doctor to exclude other underlying conditions and advise treatment for hemorrhoids.

Can rectal bleeding go away on its own?

Some minor causes may improve on their own, but all rectal bleeding should still be evaluated to exclude more serious conditions.

When should I see a colorectal surgeon for rectal bleeding?

You should consult a colorectal surgeon if rectal bleeding is persistent, recurrent, occurs for the first time after age 45, or is associated with symptoms such as bowel habit changes, abdominal pain, loss of weight or unexplained fatigue.

How soon should I see a doctor?

For mild symptoms, arrange an appointment within a few days. Seek urgent care for heavy bleeding or concerning symptoms.

Do I need a colonoscopy for rectal bleeding?

A colonoscopy may be recommended depending on your symptoms, age, and medical history. It allows the doctor to examine the colon and rectum directly and identify causes such as cancer, polyps, inflammation or bleeding sources.

Is colonoscopy painful? 

Colonoscopy is commonly performed under sedation and is generally well tolerated. Most patients experience little to no discomfort during the procedure.

Take the Next Step Towards Clarity

Rectal bleeding should never be ignored. If you are experiencing bleeding, changes in bowel habits, or ongoing discomfort, early consultation can provide clarity and reassurance — you may consider booking a consultation for further assessment.

📍 Sincere Surgery Centre – Singapore
📞 Call: +65 6665 6639
💬 WhatsApp: +65 9088 0620
📅 Book online via our website
Our specialist team is here to guide you with clarity, compassion, and patient-centred care.