Problems in the Anus and Rectum: an Overview of the Common Anal and Rectal Problems

Several diseases or conditions can affect the last two parts of the digestive tract: the rectum and anus. Some of the common conditions affecting these digestive structures include bleeding in the rectum and anus, fecal incontinence, hemorrhoids, proctitis, and ulcerative colitis. The following provides a brief overview of these conditions.

Anal and rectal bleeding

Bleeding in the anus and rectum is commonly caused by hemorrhoids-a condition wherein the veins in the anal area or the lower part of the rectum becomes swollen and inflamed. This can cause a person to notice blood in his or her stool or in the tissue paper after a bowel movement.

While hemorrhoids, as a cause of bleeding, is usually not life-threatening, other health problems may also cause bleeding in those areas, such as colorectal and anal cancer. People experiencing digestive tract bleeding and sudden changes in bowel movement, especially those aged 50 and above and with family history of colorectal cancer, should consult their doctor to be tested for the condition.

Other conditions that can cause bleeding in the anus and rectal area may include fissures, abscesses, and fistulae (abnormal passages between two organs).

Fecal Incontinence

Fecal incontinence, also called bowel incontinence, occurs when a person is unable to control his or her bowel movements. Millions of people, young or old, have some kind of fecal incontinence. In fact, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), there are more than 5.5 million individuals in the United States who have the condition. Although it occurs more commonly in older adults, fecal incontinence is not a part of normal aging.

A person who has fecal incontinence may accidentally leak stool while passing gas or may not be able to hold his or her bowel when the urge to have a bowel movement occurs.

Fecal incontinence can occur as a result of chronic (long-term) constipation or diarrhea, damage to the nerves supplying the sphincters of the anus, and pelvic floor muscle abnormalities.

Treatments for fecal incontinence may include dietary changes, medicines, bowel training, or surgery.

Hemorrhoids

Veins around the anus and lower rectum can become inflamed and swollen, a condition called hemorrhoids. It can be irritating and can cause pain or discomfort. Hemorrhoids are common among men and women. According to the National Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), more than half of the population will experience hemorrhoids at one point as they reach the age of 50.

The most common cause of the condition is too much straining when having a bowel movement. Chronic constipation and diarrhea, aging, and pregnancy can lead to the development of hemorrhoids, as well.

Treatment of hemorrhoids may include warm water baths, creams or other medications prescribed by the doctor. The doctor may recommend surgery for extreme or severe cases.

Proctitis

Proctitis is the irritation and inflammation of the inner lining of the rectum, which can be due to a variety of causes. It can result from side effects of medical treatments such as radiation therapy and antibiotic therapy. Proctitis may also be caused by sexually transmitted diseases like gonorrhea and herpes. Bacterial infection from nonsexually transmitted causes may also cause rectal inflammation.

Health problems called irritable bowel diseases (IBD), such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease can cause inflammation of the rectum as well.

Proctitis can cause discomfort and possibly, bleeding. Most people with proctitis experience frequent urge to have a bowel movement. Other symptoms of proctitis may include pain in the left lower side of the abdomen, feeling of fullness of the rectum, and pain in the anus and rectal area.

Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a disease that affects the lining of the rectum and colon-the longest part of the large intestine. Some people call the large intestine as the colon. The disease causes inflammation and formation of ulcers (sores) in the inner lining of the rectum and colon. Ulcerative pertains to the presence of ulcers and colitis means inflammation of the colon. When the rectum and lower part of the colon is inflamed, this is called ulcerative proctitis.

The most common symptoms of the condition are pain in the abdomen and having bloody diarrhea. Other symptoms of ulcerative colitis may include anemia, feeling tired, loss of appetite, weight loss, and dehydration due to loss of body fluids and nutrients.

The cause of ulcerative colitis is not fully understood. What is known is that, it is not caused by stress or sensitivity to certain types of food. However, these factors may trigger symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

Resources:

Bleeding in the Digestive Tract. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).

Fecal Incontinence. NIDDK

Hemorhhoids. NIDDK

Proctitis. NIDDK

Ulcerative Colitis. NIDDK