The Blood in Your Stool Can Be Attributed to Several Issues
Some causes are mild, while others may require early treatment.
Why Early Detection of Colon Cancer is Important
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers, but it is also highly treatable when detected early.
Many cases begin as polyps, which can be removed during colonoscopy before they develop further.
Early diagnosis provides more treatment options and better outcomes.
Colonoscopy: A Key Step in Diagnosis
A colonoscopy allows direct examination of the colon and is the most reliable way to determine the source of bleeding.
It can:
- Detect abnormalities within the colon
- Remove polyps during the same procedure
- Diagnose inflammatory or structural conditions
- Identify early-stage colorectal cancer
Performed under sedation, colonoscopy is generally well tolerated and usually completed as a day procedure.
Dr Wang Yu Tien
Senior Consultant Gastroenterologist Experienced in Colonoscopy & Digestive Diagnostics
FAMS (Singapore), MBBS (Sydney) (Hons), MRCP (UK), Master of Clinical Investigation
Dr Wang Yu Tien is a Senior Consultant Gastroenterologist with over 20 years of experience and a former Senior Consultant at Singapore General Hospital (SGH).
He completed his specialist training in gastroenterology and hepatology at SGH and further pursued fellowship training at the Centre for Digestive Diseases, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry (UK).
Clinical focus includes:
- Colonoscopy and polypectomy
- Evaluation of blood in stool and gastrointestinal bleeding
- Early detection of colorectal cancer
Insurance Panels:
Adept, AIA, Alliance, Allianz, Bupa, Fullerton, Geoblue, Great Eastern Life, HSBC Life, IHP, Income, iXchange, MHC, Prudential, Singlife
Common Conditions Treated by Dr Wang Yu Tien
Blood in Stool (Rectal Bleeding)
Blood in stool can range from minor to serious causes. Proper evaluation helps determine whether it is due to common conditions or something that needs further attention.
Colon Polyps
Polyps are growths in the colon that may not cause symptoms. Some can develop into cancer over time, which is why early detection and removal is important.
Colorectal Cancer
Often develops silently in early stages. Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes and recovery.
Changes in Bowel Habits
Ongoing diarrhea, constipation, or irregular bowel movements may indicate underlying digestive conditions that require evaluation.
Other Digestive Conditions Treated
Clinic Practice Place
Nobel Gastroenterology Centre
(Gleneagles Medical Centre)
6 Napier Road #04-01, Singapore 258499
Operating Hours
Mon – Fri: 08:30 – 12:30 | 14:00 – 17:30
Sat: 08:30 – 12:30
Sun & PH: Closed
Frequently Asked Questions
Not always. It can be caused by common conditions like haemorrhoids or minor tears. However, it may also indicate polyps or colorectal cancer. If it is persistent, recurring, or unexplained, it should be checked by a doctor.
Blood in stool may appear bright red, dark red, or even black and tarry. Appearance alone cannot determine the cause, which is why proper evaluation is important.
The procedure is usually performed under sedation, so most patients are comfortable and do not feel pain during the examination.
Colonoscopy is typically a day procedure. Most patients can return home the same day and resume normal activities shortly after.
Bowel movements usually return to normal within 24 hours. Because the bowel is cleared before the procedure, it may take a short time before your first normal stool.
Don’t Ignore Blood in Your Stool
Getting the right diagnosis early can make a significant difference to your health and peace of mind.