It is important to identify the specific cause of the inflammation so that appropriate treatment can be started. Polyps and Cancer - Of course, the greatest concern about rectal bleeding is cancer. Polyps are benign growths in the colon. When polyps reach a large size, they can bleed. And certain types of polyps turn into cancer.
Colon cancer is usually curable when discovered early.
It most often occurs in people over the age of 50, but it is not unheard of in younger individuals, even in their 30's or younger. Because colon cancer is such a common cancer, it is always considered as a possible diagnosis. Protrusion of the Rectum - Some older individuals will have weakened rectal support tissues. Part of the rectum then can project from the anus and bleed. This condition is called rectal prolapse.