Is this an urgent problem-blood in stools?

[whitershadeofpale]

I went to an event on Tuesday where food served was fairly rich and there was a fair amount of alcohol served.

Since then I've been incredibly bloated (I look heavily pregnant and uncomfortable) and it's got worse every time I've eaten (I haven't had much of an appetite though). I do have an IBS diagnosis and although I get a swollen stomach on occasions when I have a migraine, I've never experienced anything this bad or lasting this long.

I was however, quite pragmatic about it and just expected it to go down eventually. Until I went to the toilet this morning and have blood in my stools. I have never had this before. I just went again and it's still there.

Apart from the bloating and loss of appetite I have no pain and I don't have any tears or piles. Is this something that I should just wait for a standard GP appointment for or is it more serious?

I'm worried but don't want to make a fuss, some of the online advise I found contradictory, so I was hoping someone could help put my mind at rest.

TIA

It's new for you so you should go and see your GP.

However blood you can see, separate to the stool is more likely to be piles than anything else so don't panic.

It does need checking out though to make sure it isn't anything more serious.

if the blood is there when you wipe on the toilet roll then it could be hemorrhoids. if its in the actually bowl of the toilet then it could be ulcer or other things. yes go to the doctor it is urgent. in the future you can do 111 online assessment on the nhs website, they call you back.

Thank you both. I’ll make an appointment.

Make an appointment. Dark blood is different from bright red. Both need investigating but usually aren't serious.

It’s usually absolutely fine and isn’t urgent but do see a GP when you can.

You may have a small tear inside, which can happen if you strain a little when having a poo. Any blood, but especially dark blood (called occult sometimes) should always be further investigated. Bright blood isn't usually a worry, but for peace of mind I'd see your GP. I have a family history of bowel-related issues so am pretty vigilant and well-versed about all things bowel movement!