Question

Two men have observed blood in their stool. One states that the blood is bright red. The other claims his stool is black. Discuss the causes for the differing symptoms.

Analyze why genetic or immune factors, rather than infectious agents, are hypothesized to be the cause of ulcerative colitis.

Why does the dumping syndrome occur after some gastric surgeries?

Examine the effects of poor absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Discuss how using coconut oil in cooking can improve absorption.

Answer 1

1). Blood in stools indicates the digestive tract problem, which can either be a defect in the digestive system or due to an infectious disease. The red blood in the stool indicates the lower digestive tract problem such as hemorrhoids. Heavy bleeding in the upper gut region can also be responsible for the presence of red blood in the stools. Whereas bleeding (low in volume or gradual and slow) in the upper digestive tract, i.e. in the esophagus, and stomach is usually responsible for the black stools. Sometimes, colon cancer can also cause dark stools.