Anal bleeding
Bleeding from the bottom
A small amount of one-off bleeding from your bottom isn't usually serious but should be investigated by a consultant
What is anal bleeding?
Bleeding from your bottom can happen for a number of reasons. If it's an isolated occurrence it is unlikely to be anything serious and may be a symptom of haemorrhoids. However, it is important to get checked as it can sometimes be a sign of bowel cancer. This is easier to treat if it's found early so you should not ignore your symptoms.
Need to know
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What do I look for if I suspect anal bleeding? icon plus
Symptoms may include:
- Pink water in your toilet after passing stools
- Blood on your toilet paper
- Blood in your stool
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How is anal bleeding diagnosed? icon plus
Your consultant may perform a physical examination to check what is causing your symptoms. This might include checking your bottom with a gloved finger, providing a sample of your stool for lab testing or referring you for specialist imaging tests, such as an MRI scan. -
Potential treatment options icon plus
Treatments will be dependent on the cause of your anal bleeding. They may include:
- Haemorrhoids. Topical ointments and gels to reduce the inflammation. In severe cases, banding or removal.
- Bowel cancer. Chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery.
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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.