rectal bleeding

[dellpsg]

Because of many years of occasional rectal bleLeding, I am having a colonoscopy q 3 years by Gastroenterology. Last one in early 2002 when three polyps, diagnosed as benign adenomatous, were removed. The problem is that I continue bleeding, bright red, mixed with stools. This can happen for 1 to 3 days every
3-4 weeks, with intrim periods of 2-3 months of no bleeding.
The amount is rather small.
I called the Gastroenterologist and he told me not to worry about it at all. Just to wait for the 3-year repeat. But I worry some. I have no family Hx of it, and I take ASA 325 q day. I am 71, without other gastrointestinal symptoms.I had a radical prostatectomy 3 years ago and I am followed regularly by Urology, with PSA undetectable. Last May I had a normal CBC and BMP.
Your advise please.

[Dash]

I believe the rectal bleeding is caused by a food allergy. I had the same problem once and it ended up being an allergy to wheat. I cut out the wheat, took some L-Glutamine and another product called GI-Encap and this healed up the intestine that was inflamed. Somehow this product lined the intestine and I ahven't had the problem since.

[GI.PA]

The type of bleeding you are describing (Bright red with Bowel movements, happening intermitantly) is most likely hemorrhoids.  It would be very unlikely this represents a polyp reformation (in just the past year) or even a colon cancer that was missed by your previous q3 year colonoscopies.

HOWEVER, with that said, a quick, in office, non-sedated sigmoidoscopy can confirm the site of bleeding (probably hemorrhoids) and make everyone feel better about the situation.  And then plan on your repeat colon at your typical interval.

Erin
GI.PA

[Kevin Pho, MD]

I agree with Erin's assessment in her comments.  With q3years colonoscopy, it would be unlikely that cancer or polyps would be missed and cause this bleeding.  Hemorrhoids or an anal fissue (less likely) may be the cause.  Another possibility would be an AV malformation - which are more common in the elderly.  

A repeat colonoscopy or a flexible sigmoidoscopy can put your mind at ease - probalby a flex sig since you have had colonoscopies so frequently.  You may want to inquire about the ASA contributing to your rectal bleed.  

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.