A 35-year-old woman with a known history of IBS-C reports developing new symptoms of rectal bleeding. Her previous colonoscopy two years ago was normal. What should be the next steps?
While this patient has a known diagnosis of IBS-C, the new symptom of rectal bleeding is concerning and should not be attributed to IBS. Possible causes could include hemorrhoids, anal fissures, colonic polyps, or colorectal cancer. A thorough examination, including a digital rectal examination and potentially repeat colonoscopy, is indicated to investigate the cause of bleeding.