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Concerned about symptoms?
Most patients are seen within one to two weeks at Cobalt Hospital.
Secretary
RELATED
Colonoscopy
Rectal Bleeding
Bowel Cancer
Stomach Ulcer
TRUSTED INFORMATION
Independent cancer research charity, bowel cancer symptom guidance.
What is blood in stool?
Blood in the stool has many possible causes. Prompt assessment gives clear answers and, where needed, early treatment.
Blood in stool concerns are one of the symptoms people worry about most, and rightly so. It means any blood noticed in or on the stool. It can appear bright red, dark red, or black, depending on where the bleeding starts.
Blood in the stool is never something Dr Kejariwal dismisses. He sees patients from Newcastle, Durham, North Tyneside, Gateshead and Sunderland quickly.
Causes and risk factors
The colour of blood often relates to where bleeding starts. Bright red blood typically comes from the lower bowel or rectum, such as from haemorrhoids or polyps. Dark red or black, tarry stools usually indicate bleeding higher up, such as from a stomach ulcer.
Symptoms
- Bright red blood on the surface of the stool
- Blood mixed throughout the stool
- Black, tarry, foul-smelling stools (melaena)
- Blood alongside abdominal pain or a change in bowel habit
When to seek help: Discuss any blood in the stool with a doctor. Black, tarry stools or heavy bleeding need urgent attention (Cancer Research UK, 2026).
How is blood in stool diagnosed?
Investigation usually involves a colonoscopy or gastroscopy, depending on the suspected source. Blood tests check for anaemia.
What are the treatment options?
Treatment depends entirely on the cause identified. This can range from common conditions, such as haemorrhoids, to stomach ulcers or, less commonly, bowel cancer. Dr Kejariwal ensures a clear diagnosis first.
Living with blood in stool in 2026
Blood in the stool should never be ignored, however minor it seems. Prompt investigation gives reassurance in most cases. It also allows early treatment where something more serious is found.
Self-care and prevention
Note the colour, frequency and any pattern of bleeding to share with your doctor. A high-fibre diet and avoiding straining can reduce bleeding from common causes. Any bleeding should still be reported, not managed alone.
What happens at your appointment?
You meet Dr Kejariwal at Cobalt Hospital for a full consultation. He reviews your symptoms, history, and any past tests. He explains what he thinks is happening in plain English. Together you agree a clear next step, whether that means more tests, starting treatment, or simple monitoring. A written summary goes to you and your GP after every visit. Most patients are seen within one to two weeks, and urgent concerns are prioritised.
When to see a specialist
See a specialist for any blood in the stool, however minor it seems, particularly if it persists or comes with other symptoms.
Frequently asked questions about blood in stool
Is blood in the stool always a sign of bowel cancer?
No. Common causes like haemorrhoids are far more frequent, but any blood should still be checked to rule out serious causes.
What does black, tarry stool usually mean?
It can indicate bleeding higher up the digestive tract, such as from a stomach ulcer, and should be assessed urgently.
Should I be worried if the blood is only a small amount?
Any amount should be checked. The amount of blood does not always reflect how serious the underlying cause is.
Can certain foods make stool appear to contain blood?
Yes. Beetroot and some iron supplements can change stool colour, but any genuine concern should still be checked by a doctor.