Bleeding in the stool (hematochezia) can be caused by internal or external hemorrhoids, anal fissure, colon polyps, diverticulitis, Crohn's disease, gastric ulcer, and of course, cancer. You should see your doctor for an examination to try to determine where the bleeding is coming from. Bright red blood is most likely to come from the lower end of the digestive tract and be from hemorrhoids (internal or external). Darker, tarry blood is more likely to come from higher in the system (gastric ulcer). Excess mucus in the stool usually points to irritable bowel syndrome or ulcerative colitis. Until you see your doctor, you can try to keep your stool soft with fiber from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lots of water. You may try adding a fiber supplement such as Metamucil, Benefiber, or others. Soft stool will make passing the feces easier and less irritating.

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