In this episode of The Real GI Doc Show, Dr. Fred Gandolfo delves into the common yet often misunderstood issue of rectal bleeding. Rectal bleeding is a frequent cause for visits to healthcare providers and can affect individuals of any age. Dr. Gandolfo uses a real patient case to highlight the importance of understanding and evaluating rectal bleeding, emphasizing the need for proper testing and diagnosis.
Topics covered in this episode:
- Understanding rectal bleeding and its prevalence across different age groups.
- The importance of distinguishing between different types of gastrointestinal bleeding, such as melena and hematochezia.
- Common causes of rectal bleeding, including hemorrhoids and more serious conditions like rectal cancer.
- Evaluating the symptoms and risk factors associated with rectal bleeding.
- Diagnostic tools and procedures, including endoscopy, colonoscopy, and capsule endoscopy.
- The significance of not attributing rectal bleeding to hemorrhoids without proper investigation.
- The importance of routine screenings, especially for individuals over the age of 45.
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