Rectal Prolapse
Alternate Names : Rectal Procidentia, Prolapse of the Rectum
Rectal prolapse is a condition in which the rectum partially or completely sticks out through the anus.
What is going on in the body?
The rectum is the lowest part of the bowel. It is located just above the anus, which is the opening to the outside of the body. In prolapse, the rectum pushes through the anus.
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
The exact cause is rarely clear. The following conditions increase the risk of rectal prolapse:
cystic fibrosis, an inherited disease that affects the lungs and gut
chronic constipation or straining during bowel movements
certain parasite infections of the bowel
injury to the bowel, which may be from surgery
Rectal prolapse is more common in young children or elderly individuals than in other age groups. It is more common in women than in men.
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