Wonder Why

Why Am I Noticing A Little Blood in My Stool?

Episode Summary

Noticing a little blood when you go to the bathroom can be alarming—but what does it really mean? From hemorrhoids to Crohn’s and colitis, the source of bleeding can vary, and knowing when to see urgent care or a GI doctor is key.

Episode Notes

Noticing a little blood when you go to the bathroom can be alarming—but what does it really mean? From hemorrhoids to Crohn’s and colitis, the source of bleeding can vary, and knowing when to see urgent care or a GI doctor is key.

In this episode of Wonder Why, Rachel Dyckman explains the possible causes of GI bleeding, what steps to take if it happens, and how a dietitian can help you prevent it from happening again. Rachel Dyckman is a registered dietitian specializing in gastrointestinal health, and has a telehealth-based private practice. In addition to working with individuals, Rachel writes freelance for publications including Everyday Health and Well + Good, is a medical reviewer for HealthCentral, and serves on the National Scientific Advisory Committee for the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. Rachel’s nutrition philosophy is centered around optimizing the gut microbiome, the trillions of microorganisms inhabiting the gut. She believes in an individualized, evidence-based approach to help others improve their health and prevent or manage chronic conditions.