Hematochezia

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Bright red or brown-red blood in the stool or with bowel movements.

Description

For swollen veins in the anus, also known as hemorrhoids, increased fiber, stool softeners and more fluids help make stool easier to pass.

Self-care

See a health care professional right away for:

• Fainting.
• Pale skin.
• Sweating.
• Fast heartbeat.
• Shortness of breath.
• Stomach pain.

When to seek immediate medical care

Make an appointment to see your care team if:

• Bright red or brown-red blood or black stool and haven’t already seen a health professional to find out a cause.
• Symptoms keep happening.
• Other changes in stool, such as color.
• Weight loss without trying, night sweats or fever.
• Diarrhea just before or after passing blood.

, When to make a doctor’s appointment