Rectal pain

Rectal pain is a common medical condition that involves discomfort or pain in the lower portion of the digestive system, specifically the rectum. It can be caused by a variety of conditions, ranging from minor issues like hemorrhoids to more serious conditions such as rectal cancer or anal fissures.

Causes

Rectal pain can be caused by a number of different conditions. Some of the most common include:

• Hemorrhoids: These are swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus that can be itchy or painful. They are often caused by straining during bowel movements, obesity, or pregnancy.
• Anal fissures: These are small tears in the lining of the anus, often caused by hard stools or by straining during bowel movements. They can cause pain and bleeding.
• Rectal cancer: This is a type of cancer that occurs in the rectum. It can cause pain, bleeding, and changes in bowel habits.
• Proctalgia fugax: This is a condition characterized by sudden, severe pain in the rectum that can last from seconds to minutes.

Symptoms

The main symptom of rectal pain is an uncomfortable or painful sensation in the lower part of the digestive tract. Other symptoms can include:

• Pain during bowel movements
• Itching or irritation around the anus
• Bleeding from the rectum
• Changes in bowel habits

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of rectal pain typically involves a physical examination, including a digital rectal exam. In some cases, additional tests may be needed, such as a colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or imaging tests.

Treatment

Treatment for rectal pain depends on the underlying cause. It may include:

• Over-the-counter or prescription medications
• Changes in diet or lifestyle
• Surgical procedures in severe cases

See also

• Digestive system
• Colonoscopy
• Sigmoidoscopy