Rectal Prolapse (cont.)
IN THIS ARTICLE
- Rectal Prolapse Overview
- Rectal Prolapse Causes
- Rectal Prolapse Symptoms
- When to Seek Medical Care
- Exams and Tests
- Rectal Prolapse Treatment
- Self-Care at Home
- Medical Treatment
- Medications
- Surgery
- Next Steps
- Follow-up
- Prevention
- Outlook
- For More Information
- Web Links
- Multimedia
- Synonyms and Keywords
- Authors and Editors
Rectal Prolapse Causes
- Rectal prolapse is caused by weakening of the
ligaments and muscles that hold the rectum in place. In most people with a
prolapsed rectum, the anal sphincter muscle is weak. The exact cause of this weakening is unknown; however, rectal prolapse is usually associated with the following conditions:
- Advanced age
- Long-term constipation
- Long-term diarrhea
- Long-term straining during defecation
- Pregnancy and the
stresses of childbirth
- Previous surgery
- Cystic fibrosis
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- Whooping cough
- Multiple sclerosis
- Paralysis (Paraplegia)
- Advanced age
- Long-term hemorrhoidal disease is frequently associated with mucosal prolapse that does not progress to complete rectal prolapse.
Next: Rectal Prolapse Symptoms »
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