WHAT YOU SHOULD
KNOW
Proctitis (proc-TIE-tus) is swelling in the last part of
the bowel--the rectum and the tissues around the
anus.
Causes
Proctitis can result from a
number of diseases spread by sex, infections from certain kinds
of bacteria, and radiation therapy.
Signs/Symptoms
Typical symptoms include rectal
pain, a constant urge for a bowel movement, blood or mucous
from the rectum, and cramps on the left side of the
abdomen.
Care
You may need tests done on your
blood and stool, and your doctor may need to examine the anus
and rectum through a flexible tube. You also may need to be
tested for diseases spread by sex. Treatment will depend on the
cause.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
-
If you have an infection, your doctor may prescribe
an antibiotic medicine to kill the germs. Take it exactly
as directed and finish the entire prescription, even if you
begin to feel better.
-
You may take medicine for pain and swelling,
including oral pain-killers and products applied to the
anus.
-
If you have a sexually transmitted
infection:
-
Don't have sex, including anal intercourse, until
your doctor tells you the infection is
cured.
-
Tell your sexual partner that you have this
infection so that he or she can be
treated.
-
Use a latex condom during sex. This helps protect
against catching or spreading proctitis and other
infections.
-
Keep the anal area clean and dry. After every bowel
movement, clean the area with a moistened tissue, cotton
ball, or soft washcloth. Then gently pat the area
dry.
-
To help relieve pain, sit in a tub of comfortably hot
water for 10 to 15 minutes. Do this several times a
day.
-
To prevent constipation, eat a high-fiber diet
(vegetables, fruits, whole grains) and drink at least 8
glasses (soda-can sized) of water a
day.
-
Avoid foods and beverages that may irritate the
rectum. These include beer, tea, coffee (regular and
decaffeinated), milk, cola, tomatoes, citrus fruits, nuts,
chocolate, and spicy foods.
-
Avoid frequent use of laxatives.
Call Your Doctor If...
-
You start having really bad stomach pain, chills,
joint pain, rash, swelling of the testicles, or a high
temperature.
-
Your symptoms come back after
treatment.
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