What are the Treatment Options?

Rectal bleeding can effectively be treated depending upon the related cause and underlying diagnosis.

• Treatment of anaemia Your doctor will treat anaemia and decreased blood volume caused due to severe rectal bleeding by injecting intravenous fluids or by blood transfusions. Iron supplements will be prescribed to build up your iron levels.
• Haemorrhoidal creams and stool softeners may be prescribed to treat rectal bleeding associated with anal fissures or haemorrhoids.
• Medications to relieve pain or vasoconstrictors (decreases the size of blood vessels) to stop bleeding.
• Endoscopy can be used to stop bleeding by constricting or cauterizing the actively bleeding blood vessels.
  -Constriction is achieved by infusion of medications through the endoscopic needle at the site of bleeding.
  -Cauterization during endoscopy is usually accomplished by inserting a cautery probe through the endoscope.
• Surgery may be recommended to remove polyps, haemorrhoids, or tumours.

Prevention

The most effective preventive measures of rectal bleeding include:
• Increase intake of fluids and eat a high fibre diet to avoid constipation.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
You should seek immediate medical care if you notice blood in your stools.