Today we are going to talk about an organ that we are all a little embarrassed to talk about, but it performs a very important function in our body. That is the anus. Perhaps you have experienced pain in this area, itching, or a little blood during bowel movements. Many people ignore these symptoms because they feel strange to talk about them. But they are really not good to ignore. So, today we will put this embarrassment aside and talk openly about the anus and the health problems associated with it.
Simply put, what is this anus?
The rectum is the last part of our large intestine. To be precise, the last three to four centimeters. After the food we eat is digested, the remaining waste, that is, feces, leaves the body through this rectum. Think of it as the door through which our body expels waste.
There are rings of muscle around the anus. We call these sphincters . These muscles keep the anus tightly closed. Only when we need to have a bowel movement do these muscles relax and allow stool to pass through.
What is the difference between the anus and the rectum?
Although many people think that these two are one, these are actually two parts.
- Rectum: This is the part of the large intestine that precedes the anus. It is about five to six inches long. Feces are collected and stored here before they leave the body. It's like a little 'waiting room' for feces.
- Anus: When the anus is full, nerves send a signal to our brain that "we need to poop now." Then the poop comes out through the anus. This is the final 'exit door'.
The muscles in the rectum are involuntary, meaning we automatically get a signal when it's full. But the muscles around the anus are voluntary, which is why we can hold our bowel movements until we need to go to the toilet.
Common diseases that can occur in the rectum
The anus is a very sensitive area. Therefore, various diseases can occur here. Not talking about these things out of shame will only make the disease worse. Let's see what these common diseases are.
| Medical condition | Simply an explanation |
|---|---|
| Hemorrhoids | This is a problem that many people have. Simply put, it is swelling of the blood vessels in the rectum or anus. These can be caused by things like straining during bowel movements, constipation, and pregnancy. They can be caused internally or externally. |
| Anal fissure | A small tear or crack in the skin of the rectum. This often occurs during a hard bowel movement. The main symptoms are severe pain and a small amount of blood during bowel movements. |
| Anal yeast infection | An infection caused by a fungus called Candida. It can cause severe itching and pain in the anus and surrounding area (perianal region). |
| Anal sexually transmitted diseases (Anal STIs) | Unprotected anal sex can lead to various sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) affecting the anus. Examples include Chlamydia, Genital herpes, Anal warts (HPV), Syphilis, Gonorrhea, and HIV. |
| Anal abscess / Anal fistula | When a small gland in the rectum becomes blocked and infected, it forms a pus-filled lump (abscess). After this pus drains, sometimes a tunnel-like passage (fistula) forms from the gland to the outside skin. This may require surgery. |
| Inability to control bowel movements (Anal incontinence) | When the sphincter muscles around the anus become weak, stool can come out when it's not wanted. This can be caused by factors such as aging and damage during childbirth. |
| Anal cancer | This is different from colon cancer. Cancers that occur in the rectum are most often of the squamous cell carcinoma type. This is relatively rare, but should not be ignored. |
Warning signs that you should see a doctor
Often, people delay going to the doctor because they are embarrassed to talk about such issues. However, if you have the following symptoms, you should definitely see your doctor and seek advice.
Remember, these are normal things for doctors. They are not judging you. Your health is the most important thing.
| Symptom | What you need to know about this |
|---|---|
| Anal pain | Don't ignore pain when sitting, defecating, or even just standing. This could be a sign of an anal fissure, hemorrhoids, or an infection. |
| Anal bleeding | Light red blood stains on the toilet paper, or dark blood mixed with stool, could be the cause. It could be something as simple as hemorrhoids, or it could be a sign of a more serious condition, like cancer. So if you're bleeding, be sure to see a doctor. |
| Anal itching | Persistent, unbearable itching can be a sign of an infection, skin condition, or hemorrhoids. It can also be caused by poor hygiene or the use of too much soap. |
| Anal tumors, warts, or lesions | It is important to show a doctor any unusual lump, cyst, nodule, or crack in the skin around the anus. |
| Abnormal anal discharge | If a non-fecal, mucus-like, or pus-like fluid stains your underwear, it could be a sign of an infection or other medical condition. |
| Change in bowel habits | Difficulty passing stool, inability to control it, or a change in the way you feel the need to defecate may be due to a problem with the muscles or nerves in the rectum. |
What tests do doctors perform?
When you see a doctor, they may order a number of tests depending on your symptoms. Knowing about these in advance can help ease your fears.
- Digital Rectal Exam: This is a very common test. The doctor will use a gloved, lubricated finger to examine your rectum and anus. This can help detect conditions such as tumors and hemorrhoids.
- Anoscopy: A small camera-equipped instrument (scope) is inserted into the anus to examine the inside.
- Barium enema: This is an X-ray test. A special liquid (barium) is inserted through the rectum, and clear X-ray images of the colon and rectum are obtained.
- Anorectal manometry: A test that measures the function and sensitivity of the muscles in the anus. This is especially done for people who have difficulty controlling their bowel movements.
How to maintain rectal health?
There are some simple things we can do to take care of the health of this area.
- Eat foods rich in fiber: Constipation can be prevented by eating foods rich in fiber, such as kale, bananas, spinach, leafy greens, whole grains, and fruits . When stool passes easily, there is less damage to the rectum.
- Take care of cleanliness: Wash thoroughly with water after defecation. But do not use harsh soaps or alcohol-based wet wipes. They can dry out the skin in this sensitive area and lead to infections.
- Safe sex: If you are having anal sex, it is very important to use protective methods such as condoms and lubricants.
- Drink enough water: Drinking at least 2-3 liters of water a day will soften your stool and help it pass more easily.
- Don't ignore symptoms: If you have any of the symptoms we discussed earlier, don't be shy and see a doctor right away. Getting treatment early can prevent major problems.
Ultimately, the rectum is a very important part of our body. It is a gateway between our inner world and the outside world. Therefore, taking care of it and being aware of any changes that occur there is very important for our overall health.
Take-Home Message
- Do not ignore any symptoms of rectal pain, itching, bleeding, or lumps.
- Although blood in the stool may be caused by hemorrhoids, it can also be a symptom of a serious condition, so be sure to seek medical advice.
- Preventing constipation by eating a fiber-rich diet and drinking enough water is very important for rectal health.
- Never be shy about talking to a doctor about a problem like this. Your health is more important than anything else.
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