Although bleeding from piles are common, not all bleeding from the anus are due to piles. Bleeding which is fresh on toilet paper or dripping suggest the source being close to the anus with piles being one of the commonest cause. Other conditions with fresh bleeding include anal fissure and rectal ulcers. Blood clots or altered blood, on the other hand, suggest a bleeding source higher up.
Regardless of the actual reason, persistent bleeding or significant bleeding requires assessment and possibly treatment. A proctoscopy examination at your family clinic may be necessary to make a firm diagnosis of piles.
Rubber band ligation can also be done at the same setting to treat your bleeding if internal piles are found. Depending on your age, a colonoscopy may also be recommended to exclude bleeding from other causes such as polyp or diverticular disease.
- Dr Quan
