What is tenesmus?

Rectal tenesmus consists of the sensation that occurs in the digestive tract, mainly in the colon in which theneed to defecate is present even when you have the large intestine empty of feces. (1)

Consequently, this sensation caused by tenesmus isaccompanied by pain and inflammation in the intestines and is caused by various alterationsor diseases in the gastrointestinal system.

On the other hand, tenesmus is considered asymptom of a primary disease, for which the doctor performs an abdominal exploratory physical examination thatmay include a rectal evaluation.

Note: People with rectal tenesmushave the feeling of wanting to evacuate, however despite their effort, bowel movements are few.

What causes tenesmus?

Here is a list of thepossible causes that medicine has been able to identifyfor tenesmus:

1. Intestinal infection

One of the identified causes of tenesmus is intestinal infection due to alteration inbacterial flora or the presence of some pathogenic bacteria that lodge in theintestine, which may be accompanied bydiarrheacolicandabdominal pain(2)

2. Inflammatory bowel disease

Another possible cause of tenesmus may be suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases. Some of them, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, can cause symptoms such as swelling, fever , intense diarrhea, including tenesmus.

3. Irritable bowel syndrome and colon cancer

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is characterized by a continuous inflammation of the large intestine , giving the perception of always being full, and can cause the annoying feeling of tenesmus , in addition to the other symptoms associated with this condition. (3)

To highlight: Likewise, colon cancer causes various symptoms , among which we can mention bleeding in the stool , diarrhea, inflammation, abdominal pain and possibly tenesmus.

4. Anorectal abscess and diverticulosis

Other causes to which the appearance of rectal tenesmus is attributed is the occurrence of an anorectal abscess , which is identified by the formation of a cavity in the rectum or in the region around the anus with pus inside, which causes pain . when evacuating.

As for diverticulosis, it is characterized by the formation of small bags that arise in the intestinal mucosa called diverticula , which end up being projected outwards due to intestinal contractions. (4)

You should know: In both diseases of the gastrointestinal system , the appearance of tenesmus has been reported among its symptoms.

5. Constipation and hemorrhoids

Constipation is a disorder in which bowel movements are decreaseddespite having the large intestine full of feces. This causes severe inflammation, which produces thesensation of wanting to defecate without being able to , characteristic of tenesmus.

Note: Hemorrhoids for their part, also among their symptoms is the permanent sensation of defecationtag. In fact, some articles in scientific journals identify tenesmus as a symptom of hemorrhoids.(5)

How is tenesmus cured?

There are some pharmacological and natural strategies to treat tenesmus that we mention below:

1. Drugs recommended by a specialist

Medications are the First Therapeutic Intervention Optionto be used in this case. Your doctor, aftera thorough evaluation, will indicate the pharmacological strategy to follow.

Important: Self-medication should be avoided, since it can worsen the condition in which the tenesmus is found and can also Deteriorate the General State of Health of the patient.

2. Increase the consumption of water and fiber

Another therapy aimed at correcting tenesmus or used as a preventive strategy is to consume enough water to Keep the Colon hydrated and bowel movements are made more easily.

3. Perform physical activity

Moderate physical activity, especially aerobic activity, favors the whole organism, but in the digestive system, it promotes intestinal motility by stimulating defecation.

You should know: Physical activity is recommended to be done at least 3 times a week for 45 continuous minutes.

4. Manage stress

Stressful situations at work, family and in general in society, serve as triggers for many gastrointestinal conditions , and can cause tenesmus.

That is why it is very important to control stress, through the practice of relaxation exercises such as meditation , yoga and breathing exercises .

5. Go to the doctor if necessary

Another indication in situations in which the tenesmus is very annoying, causes a lot of pain and inflammation or is very prolonged in time, is to immediately go to a specialist doctor in order to verify the cause that gives rise to this symptom.

Key Findings

  • Tenesmus consists of the sensation produced by the need to defecate, even when your large intestine is empty of feces.
  • Tenesmus is a symptom of a primary diseasein the gastrointestinal system.
  • Tenesmus is accompanied by pain and inflammation in the intestines.
  • Tenesmus can be treated with the application of pharmacological and natural strategies.

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