Rectal bleeding is common and is most often caused by benign conditions, such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures. However, bleeding should never be ignored, especially if it is new, persistent, or associated with changes in bowel habits, weight loss, or anemia. In Ontario, a family doctor can refer you to a colorectal surgeon to determine the cause and arrange appropriate testing, such as a colonoscopy if needed.

You should seek medical attention if rectal bleeding is recurrent, increasing, associated with pain, or accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, or changes in bowel habits. Even if bleeding seems minor, a proper assessment is important to rule out serious causes.

Hemorrhoids often cause painless bleeding typically bright red blood, itching, a feeling of fullness near the anus, or they can pop out of the anus. However, these symptoms can overlap with other colorectal conditions. A colorectal surgeon can perform a focused examination to determine the exact cause and ensure that nothing more serious is missed.

Many hemorrhoidal symptoms improve with dietary changes, adequate hydration, avoidance of straining and a fiber supplement.  Persistent or recurrent hemorrhoids may require further treatment with banding or surgery.  A colorectal surgeon can advise whether conservative care or intervention is appropriate.

Surgery is usually reserved for hemorrhoids that cause ongoing bleeding, or prolapse despite conservative treatment. Most patients do not require surgery, and several minimally invasive options may be available.  A colorectal surgeon can advise if surgery is indicated.

Early colon cancer may cause few or no symptoms. When present, symptoms can include rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, unexplained anemia, abdominal discomfort, or weight loss. Screening and timely evaluation are key to early detection.  Colorectal cancer screening saves lives, and a colorectal surgeon can arrange appropriate screening such as colonoscopy, and guide timely follow-up and treatment if abnormalities are found.

Rectal cancer may cause rectal bleeding, a feeling of incomplete emptying, changes in stool shape, or rectal pain. Any persistent rectal symptoms should be evaluated by a specialist.

Many symptoms, such as rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits, may require a colonoscopy to determine the cause. A colorectal surgeon can assess your symptoms and decide whether a colonoscopy or other testing is appropriate.

Colonoscopies are generally well tolerated and are usually performed with sedation to ensure patient comfort. Most patients remember little or nothing about the procedure.

Colorectal surgeons treat conditions affecting the colon, rectum, and anus, including hemorrhoids, fissures, abscesses, fistulas, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s and Colitis), diverticular disease, rectal prolapse , fecal incontinence and colorectal cancer.

Your family doctor or nurse practitioner can send a referral directly to The Colorectal Surgery Clinic. Urgency is assessed based on symptoms to ensure timely care.