Rectal Bleeding Is The Passage Of Blood Through The Rectum, Either As Bright Red Blood On The Stool Or As Altered Stool Color Ranging From Black, Maroon, Or Tarry Stool. It Is A Common Symptom With Many Potential Causes, Ranging From Non-Serious To Potentially Life-Threatening. Common Causes Of Rectal Bleeding Include Hemorrhoids, Anal Fissures, And Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Less Common Causes Include Polyps, Colorectal Cancer, And Other Infections. Hemorrhoids Are Swollen Veins Inside Or Outside Of The Rectum That Can Be Painful And Bleed During Or After A Bowel Movement. Anal Fissures Are Small Tears Or Ulcers In The Lining Of The Anus That Can Be Painful And Often Bleed. IBD Is A Group Of Chronic Inflammatory Diseases Of The Gastrointestinal Tract And Includes Crohn’s Disease And Ulcerative Colitis. Polyps Are Growths In The Lining Of The Colon Or Rectum That Can Cause Rectal Bleeding. Colorectal Cancer Is Cancer Of The Colon Or Rectum And Can Cause Bleeding, As Well As Other Symptoms. If You Experience Rectal Bleeding, It Is Important To Consult Your Doctor. Your Doctor May Perform A Physical Exam, As Well As Order Tests Such As A Colonoscopy, Stool Sample, And Imaging Tests To Help Diagnose The Cause. Treatment Will Depend On The Cause Of The Rectal Bleeding And May Include Changes In Diet And Lifestyle, Medications, Or Surgery.