Blood when wiping is usually caused by bleeding in the lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract, particularly from the anus, rectum, or lower colon. The most common reasons include:
- Hemorrhoids (swollen blood vessels in or around the anus) that can bleed during bowel movements or wiping.
- Anal fissures, which are small tears in the lining of the anus causing bright red blood and sometimes pain.
- Minor injuries or irritation from straining or hard stools.
- Less common but more serious causes include colon polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, or colorectal cancer, which require medical evaluation.
Bright red blood seen only when wiping and not mixed in stool generally points to issues close to the anus like hemorrhoids or fissures. However, if blood persists, increases, or is accompanied by other symptoms (pain, lumps, changes in bowel habits), it is important to seek medical advice to rule out serious conditions.
