Colon health

Over the last 6 months, I have had fresh blood on the toilet paper 2 or 3 times during a bowl movement when I have had to bear down harder than normal.  There is no pain.  Should I be concerned?

[HeinrikMD]

Hi,

It would be best to see a doctor. The bleeding may simply be due to hemorrhoids/piles which could develop due to a history of needing to bear down more than usual when passing stool. The hemorrhoids that tend to bleed also tend to be painless. However, this may represent another disease and hence submitting that it is only hemorrhoids would become a missed opportunity for an earlier diagnosis of a disease that may require surgery. Don’t panic, but I think there is much reason also to schedule an appointment soon as you can. Stay positive.