Proctitis
What is Proctitis?
Proctitis is a inflammation of the rectum. It can be caused by a number of different things, including infection, sexual activity, dietary problems, or radiation therapy. It can also be caused by inflammatory bowel disease.
Proctitis can be uncomfortable and can cause a range of symptoms, including rectal pain, bleeding, and diarrhea. Depending on the cause, treatment for proctitis may involve antibiotics, lifestyle changes, medications, and/or surgery.
Symptoms of Proctitis
The most common symptom of proctitis is rectal pain. It may come and go or it may be persistent. Rectal pain is often accompanied by one or more of the following symptoms:
- Rectal bleeding
- Diarrhea
- Painful or burning sensation when passing bowel movements
- Itching or soreness around the anus
- Abdominal cramping or bloating
Causes of Proctitis
Proctitis can be caused by any number of things, including the following:
- Infections such as Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Herpes, and HIV
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Radiation therapy
- Inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative colitis
- Exposure to irritating substances such as soaps, chemicals, and douches
- Dietary problems such as a lack of fiber or excessive amounts of fat
Treatment for Proctitis
The treatment for proctitis depends on the cause. For minor cases, treatment may involve dietary changes, over-the-counter medications, or lifestyle changes. More severe cases may require antibiotics or other medications. In some cases, surgery may be necessary. It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible in order to determine the appropriate treatment.