Blood in Stool in New Jersey
The finding of blood in stool can indicate a serious medical condition. The Digestive Health & Nutrition Center has two convenient locations in Lawrenceville and Princeton New Jersey where can receive the exceptional care you deserve. Angela Merlo, MD is an experienced Gastroenterologist and highly proficient in diagnosis the cause and treating blood in stool in adults as well as children.
What is Gastrointestinal Bleeding or Blood in the Stool?
Blood in the stool can originate from any part of the digestive tract from the mouth to the rectum. The color of the blood in stool can sometimes provide clues as the point of origin. The usual bright red color of blood changes to black when the bleeding originates in the esophagus, stomach or small intestine because of the longer time before the blood appears in stool. But, small amounts of blood do not change stool color and rapid bleeding from the stomach will appear red so sophisticated medical evaluation is necessary. Bleeding can have serious consequences such as anemia. A Gastroenterology specialist is necessary to determine the source of the blood in stool so health can be restored with proper treatment.
Why Is There Blood in My Stool?
Blood in stool is not normal even if you are taking medications to prevent blood clotting. Even small amounts of blood in stool should be investigated to prevent further blood loss and the advance of potentially dangerous conditions that may be the underlying cause. Blood in stool can come from tears in blood vessels lining the digestive tract. More common sources of blood in stool are:
- Colon and Colorectal Cancer
- Crohn’s Disease
- Diverticulosis
- Esophageal Cancer
- Esophagitis
- Hemorrhoids
- Infectious Gastroenteritis
- Polyps
- Stomach Cancer
- Ulcerative Colitis
- Ulcers
How is Blood in Stool Diagnosed and Treated?
The point of origin and the underlying disorder must first be determined for proper treatment and relief of symptoms. Dr. Merlo is highly proficient at performing the necessary procedures to provide you with an accurate diagnosis.
Dr. Merlo is also expert at the specialized techniques of cautery, polypectomy and injections depending on the source of bleeding.
If you or your children are experiencing blood in stool, contact the Digestive Health & Nutrition Center in Lawrenceville or Princeton, New Jersey for an appointment. Dr. Merlo will expedite your care.
