Concerned about symptoms?
Most patients are seen within one to two weeks at Cobalt Hospital.
Secretary
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Bowel Cancer
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Bleeding from the back passage has many possible causes. Prompt assessment gives peace of mind and, where needed, early treatment.
What is rectal bleeding?
Rectal bleeding is assessed promptly by Dr Kejariwal to find the cause. Rectal bleeding means any blood passed from the back passage. It may be seen on toilet paper, mixed with stool, or in the toilet bowl. It is often caused by common, harmless conditions. It should always be checked.
Patients across Newcastle, Durham, North Tyneside, Gateshead and Sunderland are seen quickly by Dr Kejariwal. He focuses on timely, thorough investigation.
Causes and risk factors
Common causes include haemorrhoids, anal fissures, and diverticular disease. Inflammatory bowel disease is another cause. Less commonly, bleeding can be caused by polyps or bowel cancer (Bowel Cancer UK, 2026). This is why any new or persistent bleeding needs proper assessment.
Symptoms
- Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl
- Blood mixed into the stool
- Dark red or black, tarry stools (a sign bleeding may be higher up the bowel)
- Bleeding alongside a change in bowel habit or abdominal pain
When to seek help: Any unexplained rectal bleeding should be checked, especially if it is persistent, heavy, or comes with weight loss.
How is rectal bleeding diagnosed?
Assessment usually starts with a physical examination. A colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy may follow to find the source directly. Blood tests check for anaemia.
What are the treatment options?
Treatment depends entirely on the cause found. This can range from common conditions, such as haemorrhoids, to polyps or, less commonly, bowel cancer. Dr Kejariwal explains the findings clearly before recommending any treatment plan.
Living with rectal bleeding in 2026
Most rectal bleeding has a common, treatable cause. The only way to know for certain is through proper assessment. Prompt investigation gives reassurance in most cases, and allows early treatment where something more serious is found.
Self-care and prevention
A high-fibre diet and staying well hydrated can ease straining. This reduces haemorrhoid-related bleeding. It is still important to have any new or persistent bleeding assessed rather than assumed to be minor.
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 new or persistent rectal bleeding, however minor it seems, particularly over 50 or with a family history of bowel cancer.
Frequently asked questions about rectal bleeding
Is rectal bleeding always serious?
Not always. Common causes such as haemorrhoids are usually harmless. Any bleeding should still be assessed to rule out more serious causes.
What tests are used to investigate rectal bleeding?
A colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy is usually used. This directly examines the bowel and identifies the source of bleeding.
Can haemorrhoids cause significant rectal bleeding?
Yes. Haemorrhoids are a very common cause and can occasionally cause noticeable blood loss. Any bleeding should still be assessed.
Can diet affect rectal bleeding from haemorrhoids?
Yes. A low-fibre diet can worsen constipation and straining, which commonly aggravates haemorrhoids. Increasing fibre intake often helps.
Concerned about symptoms?
Most patients are seen within one to two weeks at Cobalt Hospital.
Related
- Colonoscopy
- Bowel Cancer
- Blood in Stool
- Bowel Cancer Screening
Trusted information
Independent national charity, bowel cancer symptom guidance.