#rectalprolapse

Rectal prolapse is a condition where the rectum protrudes out through the anus. The rectum, the final part of the large intestine, loses its attachments and becomes weakened, protruding towards the anus. It is more likely to occur in females than in males, especially in older adults. Common symptoms of rectal prolapse include faecal incontinence, constipation, passing blood and mucus from the rectum, and feeling like a bulge from the anus.

The etiology of rectal prolapse is multifactorial; it includes weakened pelvic floor muscles, anal sphincters, long-term constipation or diarrhoea, damage from giving birth, and cystic fibrosis. Complications of rectal prolapse include ulceration or bleeding, incarceration (rectum prolapsed which cannot be pushed back) and strangulation (cut off of blood supply to the prolapsed rectum).

A proctologist or colorectal surgeon specialised in the lower gastrointestinal tract, such as the colon, rectum, and anus, can accurately diagnose and provide appropriate treatment for rectal prolapse.

Rectal Prolapse Prevalence

Rectal prolapse prevalence worldwide

Rectal prolapse is more common in Western countries, with a prevalence of 2.5 per 100,000 population. Women are more affected than men, especially the elderly, with a 9:1 ratio. This disease is more common in individuals over 50.

Rectal prolapse prevalence in India

Rectal prolapse is a rare condition, and there is limited large-scale data in India; most data come from small hospitals or clinics.

Learn more about Rectal Prolapse in detail: Rectal Prolapse: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

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What is rectal prolapse?

Rectal prolapse is a condition in which the walls of the rectum protrude through the anus and are visible outside the body. Rectal prolapse is commonly seen in elderly people and is rare among children.

What are the signs and symptoms of rectal prolapse?

There is a sensation as if something is protruding out from the anus

Bleeding or mucus discharge from the protruding tissue may be present

Pain during bowel movements, and discomfort

Involuntary bowel movements

The feeling as if bowels are not completely evacuated

Itching, irritation, and pain in the anal region

Sensation to push back the rectum inside

What are the causes of rectal prolapse?

The ligaments and muscles of the rectum become weak which result in rectal prolapse

History of chronic constipation is the major cause of rectal prolapse

Straining during defecation

Increasing age

Malnutrition

Sphincter paralysis

Congenital bowel disorders like Neuronal Intestinal Dysplasia and Hirschsprung’s Disease

A whooping cough

Pregnancy

Stress of childbirth

History of previous surgery

Spinal injury or back injury

Cystic fibrosis

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Irritable bowel syndrome(IBS)

Hemorrhoids

Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy

What are the types of rectal prolapse?

There are 3 main types of rectal prolapse; Partial, complete and internal prolapse.

— Partial prolapse

In the case of partial rectal prolapse, the lining of the rectum protrudes out of the anus. It mainly occurs after straining during a bowel movement.

— Complete prolapse

In case of complete prolapse, the entire wall of the rectum protrudes out of the anus. Initially, it may occur during bowel movements.

Complete prolapse over time may occur while standing or walking.

— Internal prolapse

In internal prolapse, a part of the large intestine or rectum may slide over another part of the rectum, this condition is called intussusception.

In this case, the rectum does not protrude out of the anus.

How to investigate the rectal prolapse?

History of the patient & family history

Physical examination

Sigmoidoscopy

Barium enema

Colonoscopy

What is the differential diagnosis of rectal prolapse? How to treat rectal prolapse?

If the patient is suffering from constipation, the stool softeners are used to reduce the pain and straining during the bowel movement.

In severe cases, surgery is required.

How to manage the case of rectal prolapse?

Avoid constipation

Avoid straining during bowel movement

Kegel exercises

Diet should include high fiber content to avoid straining during defecation

Drink plenty of water

Can homeopathy help in this case?

Yes, homeopathy can help in this case. It depends upon person to person. Some of the homeopathic medicines which can help in rectal prolapse are:

What are the complications of rectal prolapse?

Infection

Bleeding

Fissure

Intestinal injury

Bladder and sexual function alterations

Constipation

Outlet obstruction