Blood on the toilet paper

Could it be harmless? Yes No

ANSWER: No. It’s cause for concern, but not always a sign of something sinister. Bright red blood when wiping is a symptom of anal tears or haemorrhoids – otherwise known as piles. ‘Haemorrhoids can cause discomfort, bleeding, itching and lumps around the bottom,’ says Nick West, clinical lead for the Departments of General Surgery and Colorectal at Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals. ‘Although they can be left alone, they may get worse over time.’

It’s always best to get bleeding checked out, especially if blood is dark and sticky, or stools turn black or plum in colour. Inform your doctor about any noticeable changes in your bowel habits.