Hematochezia refers to the passing of bright red blood in stool and usually indicates bleeding in the large intestine or colon. The most common causes are diverticulitis and hemorrhoids. It can also be a symptom of colon cancer, intestinal infection, or inflammatory bowel disease. A colonoscopy allows examination of the inner lining of the rectum and colon using a thin, flexible tube inserted through the anus. This test helps detect ulcers, polyps, tumors, or areas of bleeding and is also used to screen for colon or rectal cancer. Small growths can be removed during the colonoscopy procedure.