What is Rectal Prolapse?
Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum, which is part of your large intestine, slides into your anus. It is caused by the weakening of the muscles that hold it in place. Rectal prolapse may look or feel like a hemorrhoid, but unlike a hemorrhoid, it does not go away on its own. In advanced cases, you will need surgery to correct this condition.
Rectal prolapse usually occurs due to muscle weakness or laxity. It is associated with factors such as aging, pregnancy, childbirth, previous trauma or surgery to the pelvis, chronic constipation, chronic coughing, spinal cord or nerve damage.
The incidence of rectal prolapse in the general population is 2.5 in 1,000.
Symptoms of rectal prolapse usually worsen over time and can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Therefore, it is important for people with symptoms to see a healthcare professional.
Patients present with complaints of pressure or swelling in the anus, a feeling of incomplete evacuation of the anus after defecation, a red mass resembling a hemorrhoid extending out of the anus, pain and itching in the anus.
Diagnosis is made through examinations such as rectal examination, defecography, anorectal manometry, colonoscopy, and electromyography (EMG).
In women with rectal prolapse, pelvic floor dysfunction, rectocele, urinary incontinence, vaginal prolapse, and bladder prolapse (cystocele) may often accompany. Other possible pathologies should also be investigated in patients with rectal prolapse.
Potential Dangers of Rectal Prolapse
Rectal prolapse can lead to serious health problems if left untreated or neglected. Potential dangers include:
Bleeding: Rectal prolapse can cause bleeding as a result of the friction of the tissues protruding from the anus. Chronic bleeding can lead to serious health problems such as anemia.
Anus and Rectum Inflammation: During prolapse, the rectum and tissues around the anus can be constantly irritated, increasing the risk of infection. This can result in pain, swelling, and signs of infection.
Fecal Incontinence: Chronic rectal prolapse can lead to weakening of the muscles of the anus and rectum and loss of stool control. In this case, the person may experience problems with stool or gas leakage.
Strangulation: Strangulation, a rare but serious complication, occurs when the blood flow to the protruding rectum is cut off. This requires emergency surgery and can cause tissue death.
Psychological Effects: Rectal Prolapse can also affect the person socially and psychologically. Physical discomfort and embarrassment can negatively impact a person’s quality of life and lead to psychological problems such as depression.
Given the potential dangers of rectal prolapse, it is important for people with symptoms to consult a healthcare professional immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications.
Treatment of Rectal Prolapse
Conservative Treatment Methods
Conservative treatment methods for rectal prolapse are usually effective in mild cases and may include:
Constipation Treatment: Constipation can worsen rectal prolapse symptoms. Eating fiber-rich foods, drinking enough water, and exercising regularly can help relieve constipation.
Pelvic Floor Exercises: Exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor muscles can help manage rectal prolapse. Pelvic floor strengthening exercises, such as Kegel exercises, can reduce rectal prolapse symptoms.
Dietary Changes: Consumption of certain foods can increase rectal prolapse symptoms. Reducing consumption of spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages in particular can reduce the severity of symptoms.
Topical Treatments: Creams or lotions applied to the area around the anus can relieve pain and itching caused by rectal prolapse.
Surgery Treatment: Surgery may be necessary in severe cases of rectal prolapse or in cases that do not respond to conservative treatments.
