Apply ice packs to the affected area to decrease pain. When rectal bleeding is present with one or more of the following symptoms, call your doctor. If any of these signs and symptoms are present, a visit to the hospital's Emergency Department is warranted. A physical examination will be performed by the physician. If necessary, diagnostic tests may be ordered to assist with the diagnosis.
Priority is to identify significant low blood volume and begin appropriate treatment.
This is the most life-threatening situation. High temperature will suggest an infectious source. A mass the doctor can feel is cause for concern about cancer. A finger examination is performed to assess tenderness, character of stool, and the presence of masses. Depending on the type and severity of bleeding, special tests may be performed to aid in diagnosis.