What is the difference between rectal prolapse and hemorrhoids? Their symptoms, causes, and effective treatment methods. Many people confuse rectal prolapse and hemorrhoids due to their similar symptoms, such as pain during defecation and the appearance of a protruding mass in the anal area. However, the truth is that each is different. We will learn the difference between them, how to distinguish between them, and how to treat them.
What is rectal prolapse
Rectal prolapse is a condition in which the last part of the colon, known as the rectum, prolapses from its normal position through the anus. It is associated with a weak anal sphincter muscle, leading to fecal or mucus incontinence.
What are hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum, similar to varicose veins. Hemorrhoids can be internal, meaning they arise inside the rectum, or external, meaning they arise under the skin surrounding the anus.
Symptoms of Rectal Prolapse
Symptoms of internal rectal prolapse include digestive and non-digestive symptoms. Digestive and fecal symptoms include:
- Chronic constipation and difficulty passing stool.
- A feeling of fullness after bowel movements.
- A frequent need to defecate.
- Pain in the rectum or lower abdomen after or during bowel movements.
- Bright red blood from the rectum.
- Thick mucus from the rectum.
Non-digestive symptoms include:
- A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the pelvic area.
- An increased need to urinate or difficulty controlling urine (urinary incontinence).
- In some cases, decreased sexual activity may occur.
Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
- Painless bleeding, such as bright red blood during bowel movements.
- Irritation and itching in the anal area.
- Pain and a bulge at the anus.
- Swelling and bloating around the anus.
Types of Hemorrhoids
There are two types of hemorrhoids:
- Internal hemorrhoids are located inside the rectum. They are usually invisible or unnoticeable, rarely causing discomfort, and may cause painless bleeding.
- External hemorrhoids are located around the anus and cause itching, swelling, and pain around the anal area, especially if a blood clot forms, leading to swelling and sudden, severe pain.
Causes of Rectal Prolapse
Rectal prolapse occurs as a result of weak muscles and ligaments supporting the rectum. Other causes include:
- Chronic bowel problems, such as chronic constipation or excessive straining during bowel movements, which weaken the muscles over time.
- Repeated pregnancy and vaginal childbirth can damage or stretch the tissues and muscles supporting the rectum.
- Aging can lead to weakening of the muscles and ligaments that support the rectum and pelvis.
- Chronic diarrhea can overwork the muscles surrounding the rectum.
- Nervous system disorders can lead to impaired muscle control.
- Previous pelvic surgery.
- Some chronic diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or diabetes.
What are the causes of hemorrhoids
Common causes of hemorrhoids include:
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea.
- Pregnancy increases pressure on the pelvic area, which compresses the veins.
- Stretching (straining) during bowel movements.
- Sitting for long periods, especially on the toilet.
- Eating low-fiber foods.
- Obesity increases intra-abdominal pressure.
- Lifting heavy objects regularly.
- Genetics: The risk of developing hemorrhoids increases if there is a family history of the condition.
What is the difference between rectal prolapse and hemorrhoids
Rectal prolapse refers to the prolapse of the last part of the colon, the rectum, from its normal position. It is a serious condition that affects the entire digestive system and may require surgery. Hemorrhoids, on the other hand, are inflamed and swollen veins in the anal area and can be treated non-surgically.
Rectal Prolapse Treatment Methods
The treating physician prescribes laxatives, suppositories, and enemas to temporarily relieve the symptoms of rectal prolapse. They also recommend increasing fiber intake, such as bran or psyllium.
In some cases, the doctor may resort to surgery to correct the prolapsed rectum and return it to its normal position. Surgery is performed either through the abdomen, perineum, or laparoscopically.
What is the best treatment for hemorrhoids
There are many topical creams available for treating hemorrhoids, including those prescribed by a doctor that contain local anesthetics such as lidocaine to relieve pain; creams containing steroids such as hydrocortisone to reduce inflammation; and natural creams containing ingredients such as witch hazel and aloe vera.
Hemorrhoid Prevention Methods
It is important to maintain soft stools so they pass easily to prevent hemorrhoids. The following tips are recommended to prevent hemorrhoids and reduce symptoms:
- Eat foods rich in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Take fiber-rich supplements such as psyllium or methylcellulose.
- Drink plenty of fluids daily to keep stools soft.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking.
- Do not strain when defecating.
- Avoid sitting for long periods, especially on the toilet.
- Exercise, as it helps you lose excess weight.
Beneficial Drinks for Hemorrhoids
There are several beneficial drinks that help soften stools and prevent hemorrhoids, including:
- Drinking water helps hydrate the body and soften stools, thus facilitating defecation.
- Apple and pear juices are rich in fiber and improve digestion.
- Chamomile tea, which has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Cold barley tea, which helps improve digestion and reduce constipation.
- It is important to avoid caffeinated drinks, as they increase dehydration.
Summary of the Difference Between Rectal Prolapse and Hemorrhoids
Rectal prolapse is defined as a complete slippage of the rectum from its original position. It can affect digestive functions and lead to fecal incontinence.
Hemorrhoids, on the other hand, are swollen veins in the rectum or around the anus, often causing bleeding and pain during bowel movements.