A colonoscopy is the passage of a long, flexible tube through the colon, which allows doctors to see what is happening inside it. Treatment may include a special diet, antibiotics, or surgery. Using stool softeners can address issues with constipation and help anal fissures to heal. Peptic ulcers are painful sores in the lining of the stomach, esophagus, or small intestine. Go to an emergency room if you experience the following additional symptoms:. Fistulas usually start as infections in the anal gland that is naturally present in the anus. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center.

Learn about its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

Bleeding from the anus

Proctitis is a condition in which the lining of the inner rectum becomes inflamed. Severe rectal bleeding can constitute a medical emergency. Fissures may be mistaken for and misdiagnosed as hemorrhoids. Mild causes associated with rectal bleeding include:. What Causes Rectal Hemorrhage?