Rectal Prolapse (cont.)

Medical Author:

George Lazarou, MD, FACOG

Coauthor:

Buck Christensen

Medical Editor:

Simmy Bank, MD, MB, ChB

Medical Editor:

Mary L Windle, PharmD

Medical Editor:

BS Anand, MD

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)
Long-term hemorrhoidal disease is frequently associated with mucosal prolapse thatdoes not progress to complete rectal prolapse.

Rectal Prolapse Symptoms»

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Rectal Prolapse Topic Guide

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