Rectal Prolapse? What is this? What causes this problem? Is it curable? What are the signs and symptoms? How can homeopathy help you? All of this and more answered, in this post and of course our doctors always there to help you. Just fill in your details in the form down below and we will answer all your questions for FREE!
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 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?
- Piles
- Proctitis
- Rectal Polyp
How to treat the 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:
- Ignatia
- Ferrum met
- Phosphorus
- Ruta
- Podophyllum
What are the complications of rectal prolapse?
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Fissure
- Intestinal injury
- Bladder and sexual function alterations
- Constipation
- Outlet obstruction
