Understanding Rectal Prolapse and the Importance of Anorectal Health in Tempe, Arizona
In our efforts to promote anorectal health, the AZ Hemorrhoid & Anorectal Center strives to continually educate our patients. Our locations in Chandler, AZ, and San Tan Valley, AZ, aim to create awareness about conditions like rectal prolapse, what it means, its symptoms, causes, and solutions.
What is Rectal Prolapse?
Rectal prolapse is a condition in which part or all of the rectum, the last section of the large intestine, slips through the anus and becomes visible outside the body. It can occur due to weakened pelvic floor muscles, chronic constipation, straining during bowel movements, or aging, leading to a loss of support for the rectum. Treatment options range from lifestyle changes and pelvic floor exercises to surgical procedures, depending on the severity of the prolapse.
Differentiating Between Hemorrhoids and Rectal Prolapse
Hemorrhoids and prolapse are different conditions affecting the rectal area but with distinct causes, symptoms, and treatments. Hemorrhoids are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum or anus, often caused by straining during bowel movements, pregnancy, or prolonged sitting.
In contrast, rectal prolapse occurs when part or all of the rectum slips out of place and protrudes through the anus due to weakened pelvic muscles, chronic constipation, or aging. While both conditions may present with protrusion and bleeding, rectal prolapse typically involves the entire rectal wall and is more pronounced, whereas hemorrhoids are limited to swollen blood vessels.
Symptoms of Rectal Prolapse
Some signs that indicate a possible Rectal Prolapse include:
- > A noticeable bulge or mass protruding from the anus, especially after a bowel movement
- > Sensation of incomplete bowel evacuation
- > The feeling of something “falling out” from the rectum
- > Visible, moist red tissue protruding from the anus
- > Rectal bleeding or mucus discharge
- > Difficulty controlling bowel movements (fecal incontinence)
- > Discomfort or pain in the rectal area
- > Itching or irritation around the anus
Causes
Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum loses its normal attachments inside the body, allowing it to slip through the anus. Several factors can contribute to this weakening, including chronic straining during bowel movements, aging, or damage to the pelvic floor muscles and nerves. Conditions that increase abdominal pressure, such as chronic coughing, obesity, and heavy lifting, can also lead to rectal prolapse.
Additionally, certain neurological conditions like spinal cord injuries or multiple sclerosis and connective tissue disorders such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome may predispose individuals to rectal prolapse. Women, especially those who have had multiple vaginal deliveries, are more at risk due to the potential weakening of the pelvic floor muscles.
Getting the Right Treatment
When you visit the Arizona Hemorrhoid & Anorectal Center in Chandler or San Tan Valley, our medical experts will develop a personalized treatment plan to meet your unique needs. Depending on the severity of the condition and the patient’s overall health, we resort to surgical or non-surgical techniques.
If you live in Tempe, Arizona, and are experiencing the symptoms mentioned above, don’t hesitate to contact us for expert advice and treatment options. Remember, delaying treatment may lead to further complications in your anorectal health. Your well-being matters to us, and we are committed to winning your trust.