Rectal prolapse: Meaning, Causes,
Symptoms, Treatment &
Cost
Rectal prolapse is a medical condition where a part of the rectum, which is the last section of the large intestine, slips or falls out of its usual position and protrudes through the anus. This can happen to varying degrees—sometimes the prolapse only occurs during bowel movements, while in more severe cases, it may be visible all the time.
About
Symptoms
Treatments
Cost
Reviews
FAQ's
WHAT IS Rectal Prolapse?
Rectal prolapse is a medical condition where part of the rectum slips out of the anus. It occurs when the muscles and ligaments supporting the rectum weaken, leading to displacement. While it is more common in older adults and women, it can affect individuals of all ages.
Types of Rectal Prolapse
1
Internal Prolapse (Incomplete Prolapse)
The rectum folds inward but does not exit through the anus.
2
Mucosal Prolapse
Only the rectal lining protrudes through the anus.
3
Complete Prolapse:
The rectum folds inward but does not exit through the anus.
Causes of Rectal Prolapse
.
Chronic constipation or diarrhea
.
Genetic predisposition
.
Straining during bowel movements
.
Having anal intercourse
.
Neurological conditions like spinal cord injury
.
Previous pelvic surgeries
Symptoms of Rectal Prolapse
.
A visible bulge or protrusion from the anus
.
Rectal bleeding or mucus discharge
.
Sensation of incomplete evacuation
.
Difficulty in bowel movements (constipation or fecal incontinence)
.
Pain or discomfort in the anal region
.
Weak anal sphincter muscles, leading to loss of bowel control
DIAGNOSIS
A doctor may diagnose rectal prolapse through:
- Physical Examination: Observing rectal bulging during straining
- Defecography: A specialized X-ray to assess rectal function
- Colonoscopy: To rule out other conditions such as tumors or polyps
- MRI or CT Scan: For a detailed pelvic floor assessment
TREATMENTS
Benefits of Laser Treatment for Rectal Prolapse
Laser treatment is an advanced, minimally invasive option that offers several advantages:
- Minimal pain and discomfort compared to traditional surgery
- Shorter recovery time with quicker return to daily activities
- Lower risk of infection and complications
- Reduced bleeding and scarring
- Precise and controlled treatment, reducing tissue damage
Benefits of Laser Treatment for Rectal Prolapse
Laser treatment is an advanced, minimally invasive option that offers several advantages:
- Minimal pain and discomfort compared to traditional surgery
- Shorter recovery time with quicker return to daily activities
- Lower risk of infection and complications
- Reduced bleeding and scarring
- Precise and controlled treatment, reducing tissue damage
What Foods Should You Eat If You Have Rectal Prolapse?
A proper diet can aid in managing symptoms and recovery:
- High-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes
- Plenty of water to soften stools and prevent constipation
- Probiotics like yogurt and fermented foods to maintain gut health
- Lean proteins such as fish, eggs, and poultry for tissue repair
- Healthy fats from nuts, seeds, and olive oil for overall wellness
- Avoid processed foods, excessive caffeine, and spicy foods that may irritate the digestive system
Risks of Delaying Treatment for Rectal Prolapse
Postponing treatment can lead to severe complications, including:
- Worsening rectal damage and muscle weakening
- Chronic constipation and bowel dysfunction
- Increased risk of infection and rectal ulcers
- Higher chances of incontinence
- Difficulty in surgical correction due to prolonged damage
Risks and Complications of Rectal Prolapse Treatment
While treatments are generally safe, potential risks include:
- Infection at the surgical site
- Bleeding or swelling
- Temporary bowel movement difficulties
- Recurrence of prolapse
- Nerve damage leading to fecal incontinence
- Post-surgical pain or discomfort
Signs of Healing After Treatment
- Reduced swelling and pain in the anal region
- Improved bowel control and movements
- Absence of rectal protrusion
- Decreased bleeding or mucus discharge
- Restored muscle strength in the pelvic area
What Foods Should You Eat If You Have Rectal Prolapse?
A proper diet can aid in managing symptoms and recovery:
- High-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes
- Plenty of water to soften stools and prevent constipation
- Probiotics like yogurt and fermented foods to maintain gut health
- Lean proteins such as fish, eggs, and poultry for tissue repair
- Healthy fats from nuts, seeds, and olive oil for overall wellness
- Avoid processed foods, excessive caffeine, and spicy foods that may irritate the digestive system
Risks of Delaying Treatment for Rectal Prolapse
Postponing treatment can lead to severe complications, including:
- Worsening rectal damage and muscle weakening
- Chronic constipation and bowel dysfunction
- Increased risk of infection and rectal ulcers
- Higher chances of incontinence
- Difficulty in surgical correction due to prolonged damage
INSURANCE COVERAGE
Rectal Prolapse treatment is mainly covered under your health insurance. Most of the time, your insurer will cover a particular amount for Rectal Prolapse and related diseases. However, the amount of coverage you will have depends on the type of policy.
It is important to know that medical treatment for Rectal Prolapse will not be covered under your insurance policy, it will only cover the cost or expenses of the surgical treatment, but to claim this, you will have to be hospitalized for 24 hours.
Know more about Rectal Prolapse
Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum, the final part of the large intestine, slips out of its normal position and protrudes through the anus. This condition can range from mild, with just a small portion of the rectum protruding, to severe, where the entire rectum may extend outside the body. Symptoms include visible bulging, discomfort, and difficulty with bowel movements. It is more common in older adults, especially women, and can be caused by factors like chronic constipation, weakened pelvic muscles, or nerve damage. Treatment typically involves surgery or pelvic therapy to restore normal function.
Conclusion
Rectal prolapse is a manageable condition with proper diagnosis and treatment. Advanced laser surgery offers a minimally invasive and effective solution, promoting a quicker recovery with fewer risks. Timely medical attention is crucial to avoid complications and restore normal bowel function. If you experience symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for early intervention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the major cause of rectal prolapse?
What causes rectal prolapse? Rectal prolapse is most often caused by the muscles that support the rectum getting weak. This can happen from constipation, damage from giving birth, or defects in the pelvis or lower gastrointestinal tract.
How to check for rectal prolapse?
- Digital Rectal Exam. This is a physical exam using lubricated gloved fingers.
- Defecography. …
- Anorectal Manometry. …
- Lower GI Series (barium enema). …
- Colonoscopy. …
- Electromyography (EMG): This test determines if nerve damage is the reason why the anal sphincters are not working properly.
Can you fix rectal prolapse with exercise?
Changes in diet often are enough to improve or reverse a partial prolapse. Try Kegel exercises to help strengthen the muscles of the pelvic area. You do Kegel exercises by tightening your muscles as if you were holding back urine or gas. Don’t strain during a bowel movement.
What is rectal prolapse 1st stage?
Rectal prolapse is when part of the rectum bulges out of the anus. At first, a prolapse may happen only after a bowel movement. The prolapsed part of the rectum may then slip back through the anal canal on its own. Over time, the prolapse may become more severe and may need surgery.
Can prolapse heal itself?
The most common cases are mild, and the prolapse may correct itself or not drop down further after some time, with or without treatment. But sometimes it can get worse. Stage I: Mild prolapse, where organs are still somewhat supported by the pelvic floor and may have dropped into the upper part of the vagina.
Is rectal prolapse painful?
If untreated, rectal prolapse can become very serious and cause severe complications. Hemorrhoids, which can be temporary, are swollen veins in the inner lining of the anal canal that cause itching, pain, and a slight discharge of blood during bowel movements.
What is the best medicine for rectal prolapse?
- Sodium docusate (Colace)
- Psyllium (Metamucil, Fiberall)
- Methylcellulose (Citrucel)
How to fix a prolapse without surgery?
- Strengthen the muscles that support pelvic structures.
- Eat high-fiber foods and drink lots of fluids to avoid constipation.
- Avoid bearing down during bowel movements.
- Avoid heavy lifting.
- Control coughing.
- Lose weight if you’re overweight.
- Quit smoking.