What is the medical term meaning "bright red blood from the rectum"?

"Rectal bleeding" is the medical term for bright red blood from the rectum, according to WebMD. The most common cause of rectal bleeding is an anal fissure or hemorrhoids; however, rectal bleeding can be a symptom of a more serious health issue.

The amount of rectal bleeding can vary depending on the cause, as stated by WebMD. Consult a doctor regarding any amount of rectal bleeding to treat the underlying cause and to rule out more significant issues. More serious causes of rectal bleeding include bowel cancer, diverticular disease, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. The presence of darker red or black blood indicates bleeding from farther up in the digestive tract, rather than rectal bleeding.