Proctitis
Proctitis Causes
Proctitis can be caused by sexually transmitted infections usually in individuals who engage in oral-anal or anal sexual intercourse. Gonorrhea, syphilis, anal warts, Chlamydia, and genital herpes are the sexually transmitted diseases that can possibly cause proctitis. Other bacterial infections that can cause proctitis include food-borne illnesses caused by campylobacter, Shigella, and salmonella bacteria. Individuals suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are more susceptible to proctitis. Other factors that may damage the lining of the rectum which may lead to proctitis include chemicals, medications, and objects placed in the rectum causing trauma to the anal-rectal area; radiation therapy directed within the anal area and the use of antibiotic to treat another disease can possibly cause proctitis.
Proctitis Definition
Proctitis is a medical condition characterized by inflamed lining if the rectum.
Proctitis Diagnosis
Blood tests, colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, and STD screening can help in the diagnosis of proctitis.
Proctitis Symptoms and Signs
Individuals suffering from proctitis usually experience frequent or unremitting urge to defecate. Passing mucus or bleeding in the rectum is also present. Pain is felt on the lower left section of the abdomen and in the anal and rectal area. A feeling of fullness is often felt on the rectum. Frequent diarrhea with a small amount being excreted is often experienced in combination with pain during bowel movements.
Proctitis Treatment
Treatment of proctitis is usually based on the cause of the disease. For example, infectious proctitis can be treated with antibiotics or antiviral medications.