Rectal tenesmus
Rectal Tenesmus
Rectal tenesmus (pronounced: rek-tal teh-nes-mus), also known as tenesmus, is a medical term used to describe the sensation of incomplete defecation. It is characterized by the constant feeling of needing to empty the bowel, even if the bowel is already empty. This condition is often associated with inflammatory bowel disease, colorectal cancer, and certain infections of the gastrointestinal tract.
Etymology
The term "tenesmus" originates from the Greek word "teinesmos", which translates to "straining". The prefix "rectal" is derived from the Latin word "rectum", which is the final section of the large intestine.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of rectal tenesmus is the persistent feeling of needing to pass stool. Other symptoms may include abdominal pain, cramping, and the passage of small amounts of stool or mucus. In severe cases, rectal tenesmus can lead to fecal incontinence.
Causes
Rectal tenesmus can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Conditions such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation in the rectum, leading to tenesmus.
- Colorectal cancer: Tumors in the rectum can cause a feeling of incomplete evacuation.
- Infections: Certain infections of the gastrointestinal tract, such as amoebiasis, can cause rectal tenesmus.
Treatment
Treatment for rectal tenesmus is primarily focused on addressing the underlying cause. This may involve medication to reduce inflammation in the case of IBD, surgery to remove tumors in the case of colorectal cancer, or antibiotics to treat infections. In some cases, dietary changes or physical therapy may also be recommended.
Related Terms
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Colorectal cancer
- Gastrointestinal tract
- Fecal incontinence
- Crohn's disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Amoebiasis
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Rectal tenesmus
- Wikipedia's article - Rectal tenesmus
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