Question

Which of the following conditions can result in the excretion of small amounts of occult blood in the faeces?
(A) Hemorrhoids
(B) Bleeding gums
(C) Peptic ulcers
(D) Intake of iron supplements

• A. (A), (B) and (D) only.
• B. (A), (B) and (C) only.
• C. (A), (B), (C) and (D).
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only.

Hint:

Occult blood in stool can indicate bleeding anywhere in the gastrointestinal tract. Common sources include ulcers, hemorrhoids, and swallowed blood from gums.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The following conditions can lead to the presence of small amounts of occult blood in the faeces:

• Hemorrhoids: Swollen veins in the rectal area can bleed and cause occult blood in the stool.
• Bleeding gums: Blood swallowed from bleeding gums can appear in the stool as occult blood.
• Peptic ulcers: Ulcers in the stomach or small intestine may cause minor bleeding, resulting in occult blood.

However, iron supplements do not directly cause occult blood in faeces but can make the stool dark, which is often mistaken for blood.