What lifestyle and dietary advice can I provide to patients experiencing rectal bleeding?

Lifestyle and dietary advice for patients presenting with rectal bleeding includes:

• Ensure stools are soft and easy to pass to reduce strain and irritation; if constipated, manage constipation appropriately ¹.
• Advise a gradual increase in dietary fibre intake by eating a balanced diet containing whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to aid stool softening and bowel regularity ¹,³.
• Encourage adequate fluid intake, especially when increasing fibre, to maintain soft, well-lubricated stools and prevent intestinal obstruction ¹,³,⁵.
• Advise on correct anal hygiene: keep the anal area clean and dry, use careful perianal cleansing, and pat dry rather than rub to reduce irritation and itching ¹.
• Advise against stool withholding and undue straining during bowel movements, as these worsen symptoms ¹.
• Recommend lifestyle measures such as regular exercise and weight management, which may reduce risk factors associated with some causes of rectal bleeding like diverticular disease ⁵.
• Offer simple analgesia such as paracetamol for pain relief if needed, avoiding opioids and NSAIDs if rectal bleeding is present ¹.