Most common reason would be hemorrhoids, but an anorectal examination by a specialist is necessary. You may also need a colonoscopy.

It can. You need to be evaluated by a gastroenterologist to see what’s causing the bleeding. It could be hemorrhoids or cancer even at this age. It’s likely not cancer at this age but we are seeing cancers in young patients more often now. This needs to be evaluated and the physician might want to do a cooonoscopy

While you are younger than most people who develop polyps and cancers of the large intestine, it is not unheard of for someone your age to have them. In addition, we are seeing an increase in the incidence of such cancers in young people. I recommend investigating blood in the stool regardless of your age. A colonoscopy would rule out a problem above the anal canal.

I hope that helps!

Peter J. Senatore, Jr., M.D., F.A.C.S., F.A.S.C.R.S.