Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum (the large intestine’s bottom end) moves out of its usual place inside the pelvic region. In certain instances of mild to moderate prolapse, therapy may begin at home with stool softeners. However, surgical correction of the prolapse will be required.
Rectal prolapse: What is it?
Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum (the last portion of the large intestine) protrudes through the anus from its usual location inside the pelvic region. (The term “prolapse” refers to a bodily part that falls or slips out of its normal place.)
The phrase “rectal prolapse” is used to refer to three distinct kinds of prolapse:
- The whole rectum extends out of the anus. • Only a piece of the rectal lining is pushed through the anus (internal prolapse).
Rectal prolapse is prevalent in elderly people who have a history of constipation or pelvic floor muscular weakness. It is more prevalent in women than males, and is especially more prevalent in women over 50 (postmenopausal women), although it also occurs in younger individuals. Rectal prolapse may also develop in babies and older children, and may be an indication of cystic fibrosis.
Is rectal prolapse just an other term for hemorrhoids?
No. Rectal prolapse occurs as a consequence of the final segment of the large intestine’s attachments slipping. Hemorrhoids are enlarged blood vessels that form in the lower rectum and anus. Hemorrhoids may cause itching and soreness in the anal region, as well as discomfort and bright red blood on toilet paper. Rectal prolapse in its early stages may resemble internal hemorrhoids that have slid out of the anus (i.e., prolapsed), making the distinction between the two diseases difficult.
What factors contribute to rectal prolapse?
Rectal prolapse may be caused by a variety of conditions, including the following:
- Chronic (long-term) constipation or chronic diarrhea • A history of straining during bowel motions for an extended period of time
- Advanced age: The rectum and anus muscles and ligaments gradually deteriorate with aging. Other components in the pelvic region also loosen with age, contributing to the area’s overall frailty.
- Weakening of the anal sphincter: This is the particular muscle in the rectum that regulates stool discharge.
- Previous anal or pelvic injuries
- Nerve damage: When the nerves that regulate the rectum and anus muscles’ capacity to contract (shrink) are injured, rectal prolapse may occur. Pregnancy, difficult vaginal delivery, anal sphincter paralysis, spinal injury, back injury/back surgery, and/or other pelvic procedures may all cause nerve damage.
• Additional illnesses, disorders, and infections: Rectal prolapse may occur as a result of diabetes, cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, hysterectomy, parasitic infections – such as pinworms and whipworms – and illnesses caused by inadequate nutrition or trouble digesting meals.
