Replied by Mama To Many (Tennessee) on 07/22/2014

It is good to hear from you!

It would be alarming to see blood in the stool with no easy explanation.

I agree that a natural solution would be ideal. At the same time, I would not be comfortable recommending natural treatments when a symptom like this presents itself, especially in a child. There are many causes of rectal bleeding and knowing the cause would make it easier to treat medically or naturally.

I have known of children to have blood in the stool from celiac disease (gluten intolerance) and other food sensitivities. I wonder if the doctor would be willing to monitor your child while you try an elimination diet? Intestinal infections can also cause mucous and blood to be present in the stool.

Perhaps the surgeon would be willing to try some other things before something as significant as a colonoscopy? Has bloodwork been done to make sure the bleeding is not causing anemia? Has infection been ruled out?

Slippery elm is a very gentle herb and healing to the digestive system. It is something I would consider trying while waiting for a diagnosis or other tests. Even 1/4 teaspoon mixed in some juice or rice once or twice a day is helpful.

I am sharing a variety of thoughts here--mother to mother. I would not want my child to have to go through major tests, like colonoscopies, unless it really seemed needed. At the same time, my children have had surgery and hospitalization at times and I was always glad we did.

I would ask a lot of questions of the doctors, as respectfully as possible and see what less intensive treatments might be done first. (Bloodwork, checking for infection, checking for allergies, etc.)

Please keep me posted. I will want to know how your child is doing!

~Mama to Many~