Proctitis is an inflammation of the lining of the rectum. What causes proctitis?
Causes include prior radiation therapy for various cancers, such as prostate cancer, medications, bacterial or viral infections, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like Herpes Simplex, trauma, and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). What are the symptoms of proctitis?
Symptoms include:
- Incomplete emptying
- The sensation that you can’t completely empty your bowels
- Increased urgency to have a bowel movement
- Spasms in the rectum
- Increased frequency of bowel movements
- Mucous in your stool
- Rectal bleeding, and
- Rectal pain.
What is the treatment for proctitis?
Treatment options are dependent on the cause.
If infection is the cause, antibiotics like doxycycline or antiviral medications like acyclovir may be used.
When radiation is the cause, medications like sucralfate (Carafate), mesalamine (Asacol, Canasa), sulfasalazine, and metronidazole may be used to help control inflammation and reduce bleeding.
When IBD is the cause, mesalamine (Asacol, Canasa), steroids, and immunomodulators may be used. Medications can be prescribed by mouth or in the form of a suppository or enema to help control inflammation more directly.
Stool softeners, if recommended, will help to soften your stools making them easier and more comfortable to pass.
Dilation procedures may be used to open up obstructed areas, and ablation procedures may be recommended for select patients. If drug therapy isn’t effective, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected tissue.
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The information on this website is to provide general guidance. In no way does any of the information provided reflect definitive medical advice and self diagnoses should not be made based on information obtained online. It is important to consult a best in class gastroenterologist regarding ANY and ALL symptoms or signs as it may a sign of a serious illness or condition. A thorough consultation and examination should ALWAYS be performed for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Be sure to call a physician or call our office today and schedule a consultation.