What other symptoms might occur with bloody stool?

Depending on the underlying disease, disorder or condition, bloody stool may occur with other symptoms including:

 Serious symptoms that might indicate a life-threatening condition

In some cases, bloody stool may occur with other symptoms that might indicate a serious or life-threatening condition that should be immediately evaluated in an emergency setting. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, are exhibiting any of these life-threatening symptoms:

  • Change in level of consciousness

  • Confusion and disorientation

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Dizziness

  • Fainting

  • High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)

  • Rapid pulse

  • Rigid, board-like abdomen

  • Severe abdominal pain

  • Vomiting blood or black material (resembling coffee grounds)

  • Weakness (loss of strength)

INTRODUCTION

What is bloody stool?

Blood in the stool is an abnormal, potentially critical condition in which there is blood mixed in with a bowel movement or feces. The blood can arise from anywhere along the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus. Bloody stool is often a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding due to injury or disease. Stools that contain bright red or maroon-colored blood may be referred to as hematochezia, while melena is used to describe black, tarry, and smelly stools. Bloody stool can occur in all age groups and populations.... Read more about bloody stool introduction

CAUSES

What causes bloody stool?

Blood in the stool can indicate a relatively mild condition, such as hemorrhoids or constipation, or it can be due to a serious, even life-threatening condition, such as esophageal varices or colon cancer. Certain medications, such as aspirin, can also cause bloody stool.... Read more about bloody stool causes

Medical Reviewer: Williams, Robert MD Last Annual Review Date: Jan 8, 2011 Copyright: © Copyright 2011 Health Grades, Inc. All rights reserved. May not be reproduced or reprinted without permission from Health Grades, Inc. Use of this information is governed by the HealthGrades User Agreement.

This Article is Filed Under: Digestive System, Ulcerative Colitis


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