Are you experiencing pain, bleeding, or discomfort around your rear end? If so, it could be a sign of rectal prolapse. This condition is fairly well known, and preventable with the right steps!
What is Rectal Prolapse and Symptoms
Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum, the last part of the large intestine, protrudes outside the anus. Some rectal prolapse symptoms include a feeling of pressure or discomfort in the anus, bowel incontinence, and the presence of a bulge or mass in the rectum.
This medical condition is most common in older adults. Now there may not be one, single cause for rectal prolapse, there are several factors that can increase the likelihood of developing the condition. These may include weakened muscles in the pelvic area, chronic constipation, diarrhea, advanced age, a history of pelvic surgery, and prolonged straining during bowel movements.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately as rectal prolapse can lead to serious complications such as anal fistulas or rectal bleeding.
Diagnosing and Treating Rectal Prolapse
The best way to diagnose rectal prolapsing is meeting with a doctor or specialist. They would be able to conduct a physical examination, ask about your medical history and even recommend additional tests such as a colonoscopy or imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatments can vary depending on the severity of the prolapse, and they usually involve surgery, stool softeners, fiber-rich diets or pelvic floor exercises. Seeking timely diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve the prognosis for those with rectal prolapse and alleviate any discomfort and inconvenience caused by this condition.
Preventing Prolapsing with Your Diet and Exercise Routine
Because rectal prolapse is more of a physical discomfort, we can sometimes overlook the emotional stress this condition can cause. Rectal Prolapse can lead to feelings of embarrassment, shame, and anxiety. Individuals experiencing rectal prolapse may feel too embarrassed to seek treatment, further exacerbating their emotional distress. The condition can also cause physical discomfort, pain, and decreased quality of life.
You can prevent this condition with a proper diet and exercise routine to symptoms and even prevent the prolapse from occurring in the first place. You need to create a routine of developing healthy weight and including fiber-rich foods in your diet can help regulate bowel movements. We know that constipation is one of the underlying causes of rectal prolapse. Pelvic floor exercises and other low-impact physical activities can strengthen the muscles and ligaments in the pelvic area and prevent prolapse from worsening.
Options for Dealing with Rectal Prolapse
We have medical technology and techniques that provide several options for rectal prolapse treatment. There are different types of surgery used in treating rectal prolapse. These options include abdominal and perineal approaches, with variations in each method.
While each procedure may have its own risks and benefits, the ultimate goal is to discomfort and provide a better quality of life for those affected by rectal prolapse. As healthcare professionals, we are committed to helping patients navigate these options with care and expertise.
If you are in the Jackson, MS area, and looking for more specific information on rectal prolapsing. You can take the first step and schedule an appointment with the specialists at GI Associates. Don’t suffer in silence! We want you to live the most healthy life.
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