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Rectal prolapse occurs when the lower section of the large intestine (rectum) slips outside the muscular opening at the end of the digestive tract (anus). Rectal prolapse can be uncomfortable, but it is rarely a medical emergency.
Stool softeners, suppositories, and other medications are sometimes used to treat rectal prolapse. However, surgery is usually required to treat rectal prolapse.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF RECTAL PROLAPSE?
If you have rectal prolapse, you may notice a reddish mass coming out of the anus, which usually occurs while straining during a bowel movement. The mass may disappear inside the anus or remain visible.
Other signs and symptoms may include:
- Inability to control one's bowel movements (fecal incontinence)
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Leakage of blood or mucus from the rectum
- Feeling as if your rectum isn't empty after a bowel movement
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF RECTAL PROLAPSE?
Rectal prolapse has an unknown cause. Though it is commonly assumed that rectal prolapse is associated with childbirth, approximately one-third of women with the condition have never given birth.
WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS OF RECTAL PROLAPSE?
The following factors may increase your chances of developing rectal prolapse:
Sex: Women account for the vast majority of those suffering from rectal prolapse.
Age: People over the age of 50 are more likely to suffer from rectal prolapse.
HOW IS RECTAL PROLAPSE DIAGNOSED?
Rectal prolapse and hemorrhoids can be difficult to distinguish at times. Your doctor may advise you to do the following to help diagnose rectal prolapse and rule out other possible causes:
- Digital rectal examination: Your doctor inserts a gloved and lubricated finger into your rectum to assess the strength of your sphincter muscles and to look for any rectal abnormalities. Your doctor may ask you to bear down during the exam to check for rectal prolapse.
- Anal manometry: In the anus and rectum, a narrow, flexible tube is inserted. A small balloon at the tube's tip can be expanded. This test determines the tightness of your anal sphincter as well as the sensitivity and functionality of your rectum.
- Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy, in which a flexible tube is inserted into your rectum to inspect the entire colon, may be performed to rule out other conditions such as polyps or colon cancer.
- Defecography: This method combines the use of a contrast agent with an imaging study, such as x-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Defecography can reveal structural changes in and around your lower gastrointestinal tract, as well as how well your rectal muscles work.
HOW IS RECTAL PROLAPSE TREATED?
Rectal prolapse is usually treated surgically. Constipation therapies such as stool softeners, suppositories, and other medications are also available. Rectal prolapse can be treated surgically in a variety of ways. Your doctor will determine the best course of action for you based on your age, physical condition, and bowel function.