When blood shows up in your stool or comes from your rectum, it’s called lower GI bleeding, bleeding that occurs in the colon, rectum, or anus. Also known as lower gastrointestinal bleeding, it’s not a disease itself—it’s a symptom of something else going on in your digestive tract. Unlike upper GI bleeding, which often causes vomiting blood, lower GI bleeding usually means you’ll see bright red or maroon blood in your stool, on toilet paper, or in the toilet bowl. It can be mild and go away on its own, or it can be serious enough to need emergency care.
Common causes include hemorrhoids, swollen veins in the rectum or anus that bleed during bowel movements, diverticulosis, small pouches in the colon wall that can rupture and bleed, and inflammatory bowel disease, conditions like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease that cause chronic gut inflammation. Colon polyps and colorectal cancer are also serious but less common causes. The good news? Many cases are not life-threatening, especially if caught early. But ignoring it can let something dangerous grow unnoticed.
Who’s most at risk? People over 50, those with a family history of colon cancer, or anyone taking blood thinners. Even if you think it’s just hemorrhoids, getting checked is smart. A doctor can tell if it’s something simple or if you need a colonoscopy or other tests. You don’t need to wait until it gets worse—early action saves lives.
What you’ll find in the articles below are real stories and clear facts about how lower GI bleeding shows up, what tests actually help, and how treatments vary based on the cause. Some posts talk about how medications can trigger bleeding, others explain how to tell the difference between harmless and dangerous signs, and a few cover what happens after a diagnosis. No fluff. No fear-mongering. Just what you need to understand your body and talk to your doctor with confidence.
Lower GI bleeding is often caused by diverticula or angiodysplasia, especially in older adults. Learn how doctors diagnose and treat these common but different conditions, and why early intervention matters.
Pharmacists play a critical role in catching problematic generic medications that can cause therapeutic failure or adverse effects. Learn when and how to flag unsafe substitutions, especially with narrow therapeutic index drugs.
As a blogger, I've recently been researching the connection between Tamsulosin and dental health, and I'd like to share some key points with you all. Tamsulosin is a medication commonly used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and it has been found to potentially impact dental procedures. One significant concern is the risk of increased bleeding during dental surgery, which may require dentists to take additional precautions. Individuals taking Tamsulosin should always inform their dentist about their medication history to ensure safe and effective dental care. Ultimately, understanding the link between Tamsulosin and dental health is essential for both patients and dental professionals.
In my latest blog post, I discuss the incredible benefits of Sweet Sumach, a powerful plant-based solution for optimal health. This amazing herb has been found to possess potent antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and can even help regulate blood sugar levels. Not only does it contribute to overall well-being, but it also supports a healthy weight and benefits our heart health. I highly recommend incorporating Sweet Sumach into your daily routine to experience its numerous health benefits. Be sure to check out the full post for more information and tips on how to use this fantastic natural remedy.
In my recent research, I've discovered that Tetracycline, a type of antibiotic, is remarkably effective in treating cholera. This disease, commonly spread through contaminated water, can be devastating but Tetracycline helps to reduce both the severity and duration of symptoms. It works by inhibiting the bacteria's protein synthesis, helping to prevent the disease from progressing. It's great to know that this antibiotic can be a game-changer in cholera-ridden areas. However, it's important to remember that prevention, through clean water and sanitation, is always the best cure.
A side‑by‑side comparison of Nasonex with top nasal sprays, covering efficacy, onset, cost, and best‑use scenarios to help you choose the right allergy spray.