Bright red blood/Mucus in stool

Hi, I'm a 19 year old female. I went to Mexico about a month and a half ago and contracted some sort of intestinal parasite which caused me to be severely constipated and unable to hold down any food. About two weeks ago, I noticed blood in my stool. At the time, the blood was darker colored. I only noticed it one time, but everytime after that I have noticed mucus as well. Now, the color has changed to bright red along w/mucus. I am also experiencing a lot of heart burn and occasional abdominal pain and nausea. Could this possibly be an internal hemorrhoid? However, I don't have any itching or burning or pain when passing a bowel movement that is supposed to go along with hemorrhoids. Do you think it could be something related to the parasite, even though it was treated w/antibiotics? Thank you.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Any type of gastroenterities - which should be suspected given the travel history - can lead to blood in the stool.  Other causes include an anal fissure or hemorrhoids.  Being only 19 years of age, things like polyps and cancer are unlikely.  

I would suggest testing the stool for parasites, as well as giardia and other bacteria.  If positive, then appropriate treatment can be made.  If the bleeding continues, a flexible sigmoidoscopy can be considered to further evaluate the cause.  

I would consider a gastroenterology referral.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.