What is rectal bleeding?
A person with rectal bleeding has bleeding from the rectum or anus. The most common causes of rectal bleeding are hemorrhoids and anal fissures.

What are the symptoms of rectal bleeding?
Symptoms that may occur with rectal bleeding include anal pain, abdominal pain, black stool, mucus in the stool, diarrhea, or constipation. Severe rectal bleeding may cause symptoms of anemia, which include pale skin, faintness, lightheadedness, fatigue, rapid pulse, and fainting.

How does the doctor treat rectal bleeding?
Treatment for rectal bleeding depends on the underlying cause for the bleeding. Treatment for rectal bleeding may include blood transfusion, vitamin supplements, iron supplements, medications, and colonoscopy or surgery to stop bleeding within the large intestine.