Rectal Bleeding

What Parents Should Know About Rectal Bleeding in Children

Seeing blood in your child’s stool or diaper can be alarming, but it’s often caused by minor issues like:

• Anal fissures from constipation or hard stools

• Juvenile polyps (may need removal via colonoscopy)

• Infections causing diarrhea with blood

• Milk protein allergy in infants

• Inflammatory bowel disease (less common, needs specialist care)

When to Contact a Doctor:

• Bleeding lasts more than a day or happens repeatedly

• Your child has pain, fever, or abdominal swelling

• Stools are dark, tarry, or black (possible upper GI bleeding)

• Weight loss, poor growth, or fatigue occur

• Blood is accompanied by diarrhea or mucus

Parent Tips:

• Encourage a high-fiber diet and plenty of fluids to prevent constipation

• Teach good toilet habits—avoid straining and prolonged sitting

• Keep track of symptoms and bleeding episodes to share with your doctor

• Don’t ignore bleeding, even if it stops temporarily

Diagnosis & Treatment:
Doctors will examine your child and may order stool tests or imaging. Treatments vary from stool softeners and dietary changes to removal of polyps or medications for infections and inflammatory conditions.

Early evaluation is key to peace of mind and proper care.

How We Can Help:

Dr. Sima Stein of Sima Stein, MD, located in San Jose, California, is a board-certified physician who can help your child determine if he or she has a rectal bleeding and how to help them manage it. Learn more about rectal bleeding and the ways Dr. Stein can help you and your child manage their condition. Our team can assess underlying causes, recommend dietary changes, and provide safe, age-appropriate treatments—including allergy tests when necessary

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Sima Stein, MD in San Jose:
Book Now