Tenesmus, stool retention: what is this, causes, symptoms, diagnostics, treatment, prevention

Tenesmus; Pain – passing stool; Painful stools; Difficulty passing stool

Tenesmus is a disease, characterized by a feeling of incomplete emptying of the bowels, despite constant attempts to defecate. The condition is usually associated with rectal pain, spasms and urgency. Tenesmus can be a symptom of various underlying conditions and can occur in people of all ages.. In this article, we will discuss the reasons, symptoms, diagnostics, treatment and prevention of tenesmus.

Causes of tenesmus

Tenesmus can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions., including:

• inflammatory bowel disease (VZK). IBD is a group of chronic inflammatory diseases of the digestive tract, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Tenesmus is a common symptom of IBD.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (CPK). IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder, which can cause abdominal pain, bloating and changes in bowel movements, including tenesmus.
• Infectious diarrhea. Tenesmus may be a symptom of infectious diarrhea, caused by bacterial, viral or parasitic infections.
• Archoptosis. Rectal prolapse occurs, when the rectum protrudes through the anus. Tenesmus is a common symptom of rectal prolapse..
• Hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectal and anal area. Tenesmus may occur due to inflammation of hemorrhoids.
• Anal fissure. An anal fissure is a tear in the mucous membrane of the anal canal. Tenesmus is a common symptom of anal fissure.
• Kolorektalynыy cancer. Tenesmus may be a symptom of colorectal cancer, especially when the tumor is located in the rectum.

Symptoms of tenesmus

The main symptom of tenesmus is a feeling of incomplete bowel movement., despite persistent attempts to defecate. Other symptoms, which may occur with tenesmus, include:

• Rectal pain: tenesmus is often associated with rectal pain, spasms and discomfort.
• urgency: tenesmus may cause a sudden urge to defecate, even if there is no stool in the rectum.
• Voltage: tenesmus can lead to excessive straining during bowel movements.
• Mucus secretion: tenesmus can cause mucus to come out of the rectum.

When to contact a healthcare professional

If you experience persistent or severe tenesmus, you should contact a healthcare professional. You should also seek medical attention, if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Blood in the stool
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Nausea or vomiting
• Heat
• Unexplained weight loss

Questions, that your doctor may ask

During the appointment, the doctor, probably, asks you questions about your symptoms, medical history and lifestyle. Some questions, that your doctor may ask, include:

• When did you experience symptoms of tenesmus??
• How often do you experience tenesmus??
• Have you noticed any changes in your bowel habits??
• Have you noticed blood in your stool??
• Have you experienced any rectal pain or discomfort?
• Have you experienced any abdominal pain or cramps?
• Have you experienced nausea or vomiting?
• Have you experienced a fever or unexplained weight loss?

Diagnosis of tenesmus

To diagnose tenesmus, your doctor will do a physical examination and may order some tests, including:

• Digital rectal examination (PRI). During DR, the doctor inserts a lubricated gloved finger into the rectum, to check for any anomalies, such as rectal prolapse or hemorrhoids.
• Fecal. Your doctor may order stool tests for bacterial, viral or parasitic infections, which can cause tenesmus.
• Colonoscopy. Colonoscopy is a procedure, which allows the doctor to view the inside of the large intestine using a flexible tube with a camera. This procedure can help your doctor diagnose such conditions., like IBD, colorectal cancer and other gastrointestinal disorders.
• X-rays or imaging tests. Your doctor may order x-rays or imaging tests, such as computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging, to help diagnose underlying conditions, which can cause tenesmus.

Treatment of tenesmus

Treatment for tenesmus depends on the underlying cause of the condition.. Some common treatments include:

• Medications Depending on the cause of tenesmus, your doctor may prescribe medications, such as anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, laxatives or antispasmodics.
• Surgery. In some cases, surgery may be required to treat these conditions., like rectal prolapse or colorectal cancer.
• Dietary changes. Your doctor may recommend dietary changes, such as increasing fiber intake or avoiding certain foods, to help manage tenesmus.
• Pelvic floor therapy. Pelvic floor therapy may be recommended for some people, to help improve bowel function and reduce tenesmus.

home treatment for tenesmus

In addition to medical treatment, there are some home remedies, which may relieve the symptoms of tenesmus. These include:

• Warm baths. Taking a warm bath can relieve rectal pain and discomfort.
• Diet, rich in fiber. A high-fiber diet may help improve bowel movements and reduce tenesmus.
• Gidratatsiya. Drinking plenty of water and other liquids can help soften stools and reduce straining during bowel movements..
• Exercises. Regular exercise can help improve bowel function and reduce tenesmus.

Prevention of tenesmus

Prevention of tenesmus depends on the underlying cause of the condition. Here are some tips, to help prevent tenesmus:

• Maintaining good hygiene. Compliance with hygiene rules, e.g. washing hands after going to the toilet, may help prevent bacterial and viral infections, causing tenesmus.
• Eating a Healthy Diet. Eating a high-fiber diet and avoiding processed and fatty foods may help prevent tenesmus.
• Maintaining water balance: drinking plenty of water and other fluids can help prevent constipation and reduce tenesmus.
• Regular exercise. Regular exercise can help improve bowel function and reduce tenesmus.

Conclusion

Tenesmus is a disease, characterized by a feeling of incomplete emptying of the bowels, despite constant attempts to defecate. The condition can be caused by a variety of underlying medical conditions and can occur in people of all ages.. If you experience persistent or severe tenesmus, you should contact a healthcare professional. Treatment for tenesmus depends on the underlying cause of the condition., and there are some home remedies and lifestyle changes, which may help relieve symptoms and prevent tenesmus.

Used sources and literature

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Quick CRG, Biers SM, Arulampalam THA. Nonacute abdominal pain and other abdominal symptoms and signs. In: Quick CRG, Biers SM, Arulampalam THA, eds. Essential Surgery Problems, Diagnosis and Management. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 18.

Tanksley JP, Willett CG, Czito BG, Palta M. Acute and chronic gastrointestinal side effects of radiation therapy. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran’s Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 41.