rectal bleeding

[cloudyday]

For the past year I have suffered from severe constipation.  Within the past 3 months I have not been able to have a bowel movement without extra-strenth laxitives. I have also found bright red blood in the toilet bowl and on the toilet paper. I am an 18 year old female,and this shows no signs of healing only getting worse. This is becoming chronic and I need to know if it could be a serios condition and should I see a doctor.

[pharmacist]

First of all, solve your constipation problem. Chronic constipation usually causes anal fissures. The type of bleeding you describe is very common with anal fissures, especially at your age. If you can,it is better to see a doctor. You will feel better. You are very young to get worried. Good luck.

[cloudyday]

You were right. The doc. told me that it was probably fissures but no tests could be done until I clear up my constipation. She also said that it may clear up on it's own. she gave me an Rx of stool ftener/laxitive, and told me to drink fleet phospho soda. Thanks for the comment

[CyberCrone]

Severe constipation is not a trivial problem, and can be a symptom of something serious, such as colitis.  You need to find a doctor who knows this; it is such a basic fact about bowel health that any doctor who says "it may clear up on its own" is not competent.  constipation does NOT clear up on its own.  If it is not caused by a pathological condition, it is caused by an unhealthy diet, and whether it is the one thing or the other, the cause must be addressed and treated.  What he has given you is a quick fix of symptoms, not a cure.  Ground flax seed or psyllium are much safer remedies than what he has given you, and can be used long term safely.  In the meantime, focus on more high-fiber foods and try doubling the amount of water you drink.  And get a new doctor.