why blood comes during toilet

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By Andrew AllenNovember 13, 2025

Have you ever wondered why you sometimes see blood in the toilet after using it? This can be a concerning sight, but understanding the reasons behind it can help alleviate your worries. Let's delve into the possible causes and what you can do about it.

Blood in the toilet, medically known as hematochezia, can originate from various parts of the digestive tract. It's essential to understand that not all blood comes from the rectum or anus. It could be from higher up in the digestive system, appearing red or dark maroon due to digestion.

Understanding Blood in the Toilet

Before we explore the causes, it's crucial to understand that blood in the toilet can be bright red, dark maroon, or even black. The color can give you clues about where the blood is coming from in your digestive system.

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Bright red blood usually indicates that the bleeding is happening in the lower part of your digestive tract, such as the rectum or anus. On the other hand, dark maroon or black blood could suggest that the bleeding is occurring higher up, like in the stomach or small intestine.

Hemorrhoids

One of the most common causes of blood in the toilet is hemorrhoids, also known as piles. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in your anus and lower rectum, which can bleed during bowel movements. They are often painless but can cause discomfort and itching.

4 Reasons Why You Might See Blood In Your Poop – Infographic

Symptoms of hemorrhoids include bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet, pain during bowel movements, and itching or discomfort around the anus. Most hemorrhoids can be treated at home with over-the-counter creams or suppositories, but severe cases may require medical intervention.

Anal Fissures

Anal fissures are small tears in the skin around the anus. They can cause pain and bleeding during bowel movements, leading to blood in the toilet. Unlike hemorrhoids, anal fissures can be quite painful and may cause bright red blood on toilet paper.

Anal fissures are often caused by constipation or straining during bowel movements. They usually heal on their own with home remedies, such as increasing fiber intake and staying hydrated. However, if they persist for more than a few weeks, medical attention may be necessary.

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Other Possible Causes

While hemorrhoids and anal fissures are common causes of blood in the toilet, there are other potential reasons that could be more serious.

Colorectal cancer, for instance, can cause blood in the toilet, although it's usually accompanied by other symptoms like changes in bowel habits, weight loss, and fatigue. Other conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), diverticulosis, and colon polyps, can also cause bleeding.

Diverticulosis

Diverticulosis is a condition where small pouches form in the wall of the colon. These pouches can become inflamed or infected, leading to bleeding. Diverticulosis is common in people over the age of 40 and often doesn't cause any symptoms.

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However, when symptoms do occur, they can include blood in the toilet, abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits. Diverticulosis is usually treated with a combination of diet and medication, but severe cases may require surgery.

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is a serious condition that can cause blood in the toilet. It's important to note that blood in the toilet can also be a sign of other health issues, so it's crucial not to assume that it's always cancer.

Colorectal cancer often doesn't cause any symptoms in its early stages, but as it progresses, it can cause changes in bowel habits, weight loss, fatigue, and blood in the toilet. Regular screening is essential for early detection and treatment of colorectal cancer.

If you notice blood in the toilet, it's important not to panic. While it can be a sign of a serious health issue, it's often due to a harmless condition like hemorrhoids. However, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if the bleeding is persistent or accompanied by other symptoms. Regular check-ups and screenings can help detect any potential issues early and ensure your digestive health.