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Painful bowel movements, medically known as tenesmus, involve discomfort or cramping during or after passing stool. This symptom can indicate various underlying conditions such as haemorrhoids, anal fissures, inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, or infections such as gastroenteritis.
The pain may range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by other symptoms like rectal bleeding, constipation, diarrhoea, or a feeling of incomplete evacuation. It's essential to consult a gastroenterologist if experiencing painful bowel movements persistently, as proper diagnosis and treatment are crucial for addressing the underlying cause and managing symptoms effectively.
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Here are the major associated symptoms of bowel pain
Straining
Constipation
Diarrhoea
Anal itching
Mucus in stools
Changes in bowel habits
Dyspareunia
Consult our gastroenterology hospital if you are experiencing the above symptoms of bowel pain.
Here are the 5 major causes of painful bowel movements
Haemorrhoids: Swollen veins in the rectum or anus, often caused by straining during bowel movements or prolonged sitting.
Anal fissures: Tears in the lining of the anus, commonly due to passing hard stools or childbirth.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis cause inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to pain.
Gastroenteritis: Inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by viral or bacterial infection, resulting in abdominal discomfort and diarrhoea.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): A functional gastrointestinal disorder characterised by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.
Here are the 5 tests to diagnose Painful Bowel Movements (dyschezia):
Colonoscopy: Visual examination of the colon using a flexible tube with a camera to detect abnormalities or diseases.
Stool analysis: Examination of stool samples for signs of infection, inflammation, blood, or other abnormalities.
Digital rectal examination (DRE): Physical examination of the rectum and anus using a lubricated, gloved finger to detect abnormalities.
Flexible sigmoidoscopy: Similar to a colonoscopy, it focuses on the lower part of the colon to detect diseases or abnormalities.
Imaging tests (e.g., MRI, CT scan): Non-invasive imaging techniques used to visualise the gastrointestinal tract for structural abnormalities or diseases.
Here are some of the treatments suggested for managing Painful Bowel Movements:
Dietary changes: Increasing fibre intake and staying hydrated can help regulate bowel movements and reduce discomfort.
Medications: Topical creams, pain relievers, or stool softeners may alleviate symptoms of bowel pain and promote healing.
Sitz baths: Soaking the anal area in warm water can relieve pain and promote relaxation of the anal muscles.
Lifestyle modifications: Regular exercise and stress management techniques can help improve bowel function and reduce discomfort.
Surgical interventions: In complex cases or when other treatments fail, procedures like hemorrhoidectomy or anal fissure repair may be necessary.
Warm compress: Applying a warm, moist compress to the anal area can soothe pain and relax the anal muscles.
Epsom salt bath: Soaking in a warm bath with Epsom salts can reduce inflammation and provide relief from discomfort.
Witch hazel pads: Using witch hazel pads or wipes can help shrink haemorrhoids and alleviate itching and pain.
High-fibre diet: Consuming foods rich in fibre can soften stools, making them easier to pass and reducing strain.
Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps prevent constipation and maintains bowel regularity, reducing the risk of painful bowel movements.
If experiencing painful bowel movements lasting more than a few days, worsening, or accompanied by blood in stool, severe abdominal pain, fever, or significant changes in bowel habits, seek medical attention promptly to identify and address potential underlying causes such as infections, inflammatory conditions, or structural issues. Consult the gastroenterologists at Manipal Hospitals if you need treatment for painful bowel movements
Painful bowel movements can significantly impact one's quality of life and may be indicative of various underlying gastrointestinal conditions such as haemorrhoids, anal fissures, inflammatory bowel diseases, or infections. Seeking prompt medical evaluation is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. While medical interventions like medications, procedures, and lifestyle modifications play a vital role in treatment, home remedies such as warm compresses, baths, and dietary adjustments can also provide relief. Overall, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, staying hydrated, and seeking professional guidance when needed are essential steps in managing and alleviating the discomfort associated with painful bowel movements.
Common causes include haemorrhoids, anal fissures, inflammatory bowel diseases, infections, and constipation due to diet, dehydration, or underlying health conditions.
Consult a doctor if pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by bleeding, changes in bowel habits, or other concerning symptoms.
Try warm compresses, sitz baths, over-the-counter pain relievers, a high-fibre diet, adequate hydration, and avoiding straining during bowel movements.
Yes, maintaining a balanced diet rich in fibre, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, managing stress, and avoiding prolonged sitting can help.
Yes, they can indicate underlying conditions like inflammatory bowel diseases, colorectal cancer, or infections, necessitating medical evaluation for proper diagnosis and treatment.
