Rectal Bleeding Colonoscopy
Specialist assessment of rectal bleeding for patients across Mount Edgecombe, Phoenix, Umhlanga, Durban North, Tongaat, Ballito, and the KZN North Coast.
Understanding your symptoms
Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool is common and often caused by harmless conditions such as haemorrhoids or small tears. However, bleeding can also be an early sign of polyps or bowel cancer, so it should always be assessed.
A colonoscopy lets a specialist examine the entire colon and rectum to find the source of bleeding and treat it where possible. It is performed in a comfortable outpatient suite close to Durban.
How colonoscopy investigates bleeding
After a bowel preparation to clear the colon, a flexible camera examines the full lining of the bowel. The specialist can identify the source of bleeding — such as polyps, inflammation, diverticular disease, or other causes — and remove polyps or take biopsies during the same procedure.
The procedure usually takes 20–40 minutes with sedation where appropriate, and you receive a clear report and follow-up plan.
Symptoms we assess
- Bright red blood when passing stool
- Blood mixed in the stool
- Black or tarry stools
- Change in bowel habit
- Lower abdominal pain
- Iron deficiency anaemia
- Unexplained weight loss
When to seek assessment
- Any new or ongoing rectal bleeding
- Bleeding with a change in bowel habit
- Black or tarry stools
- Bleeding with weight loss or anaemia
- A family history of bowel cancer or polyps
Frequently asked questions
Rectal bleeding should always be assessed by a doctor. While common causes like haemorrhoids are often harmless, bleeding can also signal polyps or bowel cancer, so investigation is important.
A colonoscopy is the most thorough way to investigate rectal bleeding, identify the source, and remove polyps if found. Your specialist will advise based on your assessment.
Colonoscopy is usually well tolerated, with sedation provided where appropriate so most patients feel little or no discomfort.
Most medical aids require authorisation before a colonoscopy. Our team assists with the process; cover depends on your plan.
Book your appointment
Serving Mount Edgecombe, Phoenix, Umhlanga, Durban North, Tongaat, Ballito, and the wider KZN North Coast. Our team assists with booking, preparation, and medical aid authorisation.