Blood in stool

Blood in stool is a health symptom with many possible causes, some minor and some needing medical assessment. Learn the warning signs, helpful questions to consider, and when to seek care.

🚨 Signs that need emergency care now

• 🔴 A lot of blood, or bleeding that does not stop
• 🔴 Black, tarry, foul-smelling stool
• 🔴 Dizziness, fainting, a racing heart or severe paleness
• 🔴 Severe abdominal pain
• 🔴 Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds

Do not drive yourself if the pain or dizziness is severe.

What to do until help arrives

• Go to emergency or call 997 if bleeding is heavy or you feel dizzy or faint.
• Lie down and do not stand up suddenly.
• Do not eat or drink until a doctor has assessed you.
• Tell the doctor your medicines, especially blood thinners and painkillers.

Serious conditions doctors rule out first

• Upper or lower gastrointestinal bleeding
• Stomach ulcer
• Colitis or inflammatory bowel disease
• Haemorrhoids or an anal fissure (most common)
• Bowel tumours (less common)

Sources for the warning signs

• NHS — Bleeding from the bottom (rectal bleeding)

Questions that help clarify the picture

1. When did Blood in stool start, and was the onset sudden or gradual?
2. How severe is it now, and does it limit normal activity or sleep?
3. Does it get better or worse with movement, food, standing, rest, or a particular time?
4. Did any other new or unusual symptoms start with it?

When should I seek medical care?

Seek medical review if the symptom is severe, concerningly new, persistent, or worsening. If a clear red flag appears, seek emergency care immediately.

✓ At least one verified Saudi source and one independent global source are linked.

This page is general educational information, not a medical consultation. If symptoms are severe or worrying, contact a healthcare professional.