The presence of fecal occult blood is an important indicator of health risks. However, many people do not understand what fecal occult blood is or why it is important to detect it. In this article, we will explain fecal occult blood and its potential risks to your health, showing you how to unmask the hidden risks and take appropriate measures to safeguard your health.
The following sections will provide a detailed overview of fecal occult blood, including its definition, reasons for conducting a fecal occult blood test, and steps you can take to treat any health issues it indicates. Read on to learn more about fecal occult blood and how it can impact your health.
What is Fecal Occult Blood?
Fecal occult blood refers to small amounts of blood that are present in a patient’s feces, but are not visible to the naked eye. Occult blood, which means “hidden blood,” is usually discovered through a test that checks for the presence of blood in the stool. This test can be part of general health checkups or conducted separately as part of a colorectal cancer screening process or routine physical exam.
Because fecal occult blood is not visible to the naked eye, it is important to be tested for it, especially if you are at risk of colorectal cancer or have a family history of the disease. Early detection of fecal occult blood can lead to early detection of colorectal cancer or other health conditions, making it possible for you to get the treatment you need to stay healthy.
Reasons for Conducting a Fecal Occult Blood Test
Fecal occult blood tests are typically conducted for two reasons: to detect colorectal cancer or to monitor other health conditions. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States, and it often has no symptoms. Detecting colorectal cancer early through a fecal occult blood test can lead to earlier diagnosis, better treatment outcomes, and higher survival rates. It is recommended that people over the age of 45 undergo a fecal occult blood test every year.
In addition to screening for colorectal cancer, fecal occult blood tests can also be used to monitor other health conditions. For example, if you have a history of gastrointestinal bleeding, your doctor may recommend that you undergo a fecal occult blood test to monitor your condition and make sure that your treatment is working. Other conditions that may be detected through a fecal occult blood test include inflammatory bowel disease, ulcers, and infections.
The Fecal Occult Blood Test Procedure
The fecal occult blood test is a simple procedure that can be performed in your doctor’s office or at home using a test kit. During the test, a sample of your feces is collected and analyzed for the presence of blood. If blood is detected, your doctor may recommend further testing or treatment to determine the cause of the bleeding.
If you are performing the test at home using a test kit, be sure to follow the instructions carefully. You will typically be required to collect a small amount of stool and place it on a special card. The card will then be sent to a lab for analysis. Results are usually available within a few days.
Risks of Fecal Occult Blood
If fecal occult blood is detected, it can indicate a number of health conditions, some of which can be serious or life-threatening. The most common cause of fecal occult blood is colorectal cancer, but it can also be caused by other conditions, such as hemorrhoids, polyps, ulcers, or infections. If you have been diagnosed with fecal occult blood, it is important to follow up with your doctor to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.
In some cases, fecal occult blood can be a sign of a serious underlying condition that requires immediate medical attention. For example, if you experience sudden or severe abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or have bloody or black stools, you should seek medical attention immediately. These symptoms can be signs of a serious condition, such as a gastrointestinal bleed, and require immediate medical intervention.
Treatment for Fecal Occult Blood
The treatment for fecal occult blood depends on the underlying cause. If you have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer or another serious condition, your doctor will likely recommend additional testing, such as a colonoscopy or endoscopy, to determine the extent of your condition and the appropriate course of treatment. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these treatments.
In other cases, treatment may be as simple as changes to your diet or lifestyle. For example, if you have hemorrhoids or ulcers, your doctor may recommend changes to your diet or the use of over-the-counter medications to treat your condition. Your doctor may also recommend regular colorectal cancer screenings to monitor your condition and ensure that treatment is effective.
Preventing Fecal Occult Blood
While fecal occult blood cannot always be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing the conditions that can cause it. These steps include maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regimen, avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, and undergoing regular colorectal cancer screenings. By taking these steps, you can reduce your risk of developing colorectal cancer and other serious conditions, while also improving your overall health and well-being.
Conclusion
Fecal occult blood is something that many people do not think about or understand, but it is an important indicator of your health. By understanding the risk factors for fecal occult blood, the reasons for conducting a test, and the potential treatments, you can take steps to safeguard your health and reduce your risk of serious health problems. Talk to your doctor today about fecal occult blood tests and take control of your health.
FAQ’s
- What are the most common causes of fecal occult blood?
- Colorectal cancer
- Hemorrhoids
- Polyps
- Ulcers
- Infections
- What is the fecal occult blood test procedure?
- A sample of your feces is collected and analyzed for the presence of blood. If blood is detected, your doctor may recommend further testing or treatment to determine the cause of the bleeding.
- What are the risks of fecal occult blood?
- If fecal occult blood is detected, it can indicate a number of health conditions, some of which can be serious or life-threatening. The most common cause of fecal occult blood is colorectal cancer, but it can also be caused by other conditions, such as hemorrhoids, polyps, ulcers, or infections.
- What is the treatment for fecal occult blood?
- The treatment for fecal occult blood depends on the underlying cause. If you have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer or another serious condition, your doctor will likely recommend additional testing, such as a colonoscopy or endoscopy, to determine the appropriate course of treatment. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these treatments.
References
- American Cancer Society. (2019). Colorectal Cancer Facts & Figures 2019-2021. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/research/cancer-facts-statistics/colorectal-cancer-facts-figures.html
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2017). Colorectal Cancer Control Program. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/crccp/about.htm
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2017). Colorectal Cancer. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/colorectal-cancer