Rectal Prolapse Doctor in Houston
What is rectal prolapse?
The rectum is the final segment of your colon, where stool forms before a bowel movement. Rectal prolapse occurs when a portion of the rectum protrudes through the anus.
Initially, prolapse might only happen following a bowel movement and could retract back on its own. Over time, the prolapse may worsen, potentially requiring surgical intervention.
What causes rectal prolapse?
Rectal prolapse is typically caused by weakened muscles supporting the rectum. Contributing factors include chronic constipation, childbirth-related damage, or defects in the pelvis or lower gastrointestinal tract.
Who is at risk for rectal prolapse?
The condition is more prevalent in individuals aged 50 and older and is more common in women than men. Younger individuals with rectal prolapse often have chronic health conditions and are on multiple medications.
Risk factors include:
- Long-term constipation
- Straining during bowel movements
- Chronic diarrhea
- Laxative abuse
- Childbirth
- Spinal cord issues or a history of stroke
- Cystic fibrosis
- Dementia
What are the symptoms of rectal prolapse?
Symptoms can vary but may include:
- A bulge from the anus after coughing, sneezing, or lifting
- Mucus in the stool
- Difficulty starting or finishing a bowel movement
- Incomplete bowel movements
- Abdominal discomfort or pain
- Rectal bleeding
- Fecal incontinence
- Needing to manually reposition the prolapse
- Rectal pressure
- Constipation
- Anal pain, bleeding, or itching
Always consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis, as symptoms may resemble other conditions.
How is rectal prolapse diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves discussing symptoms and health history with a healthcare provider, who will conduct a physical exam. You may be asked to squat and strain as if having a bowel movement. Additional tests might include:
- Defecogram: An X-ray during a simulated bowel movement.
- Anorectal manometry: Measures rectal muscle function using a pressure-measuring tube.
- Colonoscopy: A camera is inserted into the rectum for visual examination.
- Barium enema: X-ray images taken after introducing a contrast solution into the rectum.
- MRI: Special MRI during a simulated bowel movement.
- Special urologic or gynecologic evaluations: Assessing the pelvic floor for weaknesses or other organ prolapses, especially if both rectal and uterine prolapse are present in women.
How is rectal prolapse treated?
Treatment varies based on symptoms, age, overall health, and the condition’s severity. Initial treatment aims to prevent constipation and straining. Severe cases affecting quality of life might require surgery, including:
- Abdominal repair: The rectum is attached to the lower spine to stabilize it.
- Rectal repair: The prolapsed rectum section is removed and the remaining parts reconnected, or the inner lining is removed, and the muscle is sewn back together.
- Combination repair: Both methods are used together.
Discuss the risks, benefits, and side effects of treatments with your healthcare provider.
What are possible complications of rectal prolapse?
Potential complications include:
- Strangulation: The prolapse cannot be repositioned, cutting off blood supply, requiring emergency treatment.
- Reoccurrence: The prolapse may recur. Adhering to lifestyle changes advised by your healthcare provider can help prevent this, such as eating a high-fiber diet and staying hydrated.
Can rectal prolapse be prevented?
Preventing straining during bowel movements can help. Follow your healthcare provider’s advice to prevent constipation.
How to manage rectal prolapse
To manage rectal prolapse, consider these tips:
- Avoid activities that increase rectal pressure, such as straining or heavy lifting.
- Treat any chronic cough and avoid smoking.
- Consume at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily to maintain a high-fiber diet.
- Drink six to eight glasses of water daily.
- Consult your healthcare provider about stool softeners or laxatives if constipated.
- Stay active and exercise regularly. If overweight, work towards a healthy weight.
Rectal Prolapse Doctor in Houston
