Blood in stools

[WinnieSandersonsCat]

Hi

Apologies if this is tmi, I have always had tummy problems either constipation or diarrhoea (with sense of urgency) saw the Dr in my teens who tested for a food allergy (nothing shows up) and says its IBS. I have seen the Dr 2 or 3 times over the last three years due to discomfort from bloating. My tummy measurement can increase by 12 inches when bloated and look heavily pregnant which causes tiredness and backache. Seen a different GP each time and just told IBS deal with it. In the.last few months, I am bleeding more than normal from my back passage. When wiping the tissue is completely red, and bright red which on the NHS website says is ok as it means its fresh. However, the last few days I've noticed clots on the tissue when I wipe. I suffer with large clots due to periods and they look the same consistency as these (definitely not fecal matter) but smaller, approx half a size of 5p piece.

Can I ask if this is normal for those with IBS? I did mention the bleeding last time in went to see GP and was informed it was probably due to constipation, even though I explained I bleed with both D and C. No large piles or anything which I can feel either.

Any help appreciated, just feel constantly fobbed off when seeing GP. Thanks

I have IBS but never had any bleeding except when I’ve had an anal fissure. The only thing I have sometimes is clear mucus. You need to see a different GP, any rectal bleeding needs investigating.

@WinnieSandersonsCat is there any chance of seeing a different GP?

I doubt it's very serious (so don't let me scare you) but it is essential that they rule out anything life-threatening, and in any case it clearly needs a specialist and not just a GP saying 'meh'.

I have ibs and the only time I have had blood is when it is hard to pass and must make a little cut.

I definitely think you need this investigating.

Oh dear, that was me on the wrong thread!

So sorry, as you were!

@Inthebleakmidwinteriwouldsing ? I think I’ve posted on a thread in health haven’t it?

@Inthebleakmidwinteriwouldsing ignore that lol 😆

Ask your gp for a fecal calprotectien test. This will let them know if there's any inflammation that could mean IBD not IBS.

Highly recommend you ask to be referred to a gastroenterologist for a colonoscopy. Better safe than sorry and can prevent any minor problems from becoming major. I had very similar problems most of my life with excessive bloating and discomfort and which were also dismissed as IBS. Four years ago occasional and very small amounts of blood when I went to the loo. Samples confirmed presence of blood and colonoscopy showed 28 polyps of varying shades and sizes, one of which was pre cancerous and required specialist surgery to remove. I’ve lived in France for 10 years, the surgeon made it clear that prompt action had probably saved my life. I’m now regularly monitored and homesick as I frequently feel, I can’t help thinking that my old GP would still have been diagnosing IBS and a prescription for anti spasmodics! Not intended to worry you OP, could just be piles or something very minor , but with a history of gut discomfort, best to be certain perhaps.