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Last Updated: Aug 6th, 2008 - 09:50:39 |
Anal Abscesses/Fistulae
An abscess results from an acute infection of a small gland just inside the anus, when bacteria or foreign matter enters the tissue through the gland. Certain conditions - colitis or other inflammation of the intestine, for example - can sometimes make these infections more likely.
After an abscess has been drained, a tunnel may persist connecting the anal gland from which the abscess arose to the skin. If this occurs, persistent drainage from the outside opening may indicate the persistence of this tunnel. If the outside opening of the tunnel heals, recurrent abscesses may develop.
Fecal Incontinence
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) conducts and supports research into many kinds of digestive disorders, including fecal incontinence. In addition, researchers throughout the country are working hard
to find possible solutions to the problem of fecal incontinence. Some studies address fecal incontinence due to anal sphincter damage and combine surgical procedures with electrical stimulation.
What is an anal fissure ?
An anal fissure is a tear in the lining of the anal canal. Common causes include constipation and straining to have bowel movements. The fissure can be painful and may bleed.
Anal itch
Anal itch is an intense itching around your anus ¡ª the canal that's the outlet for your rectum. The itch, located in your anus or on the skin just around your anus, may be accompanied by a strong urge to scratch. It can be an embarrassing and uncomfortable situation.
Hemorrhoids
The term hemorrhoids refers to a condition in which the veins around the anus or lower rectum are swollen and inflamed.
Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy (koh-luh-NAH-skuh-pee) lets the physician look inside your entire large intestine, from the lowest part, the rectum, all the way up through the colon to the lower end of the small intestine. The procedure is used to look for early signs of cancer in the colon and rectum. It is also used to diagnose the causes of unexplained changes in bowel habits. Colonoscopy enables the physician to see inflamed tissue, abnormal growths, ulcers, and bleeding.
Fecal Incontinence
Fecal incontinence is the inability to control your bowels. When you feel the urge to have a bowel movement, you may not be able to hold it until you can get to a toilet. Or stool may leak from the rectum unexpectedly.
More than 5.5 million Americans have fecal incontinence. It affects people of all ages¡ªchildren as well as adults. Fecal incontinence is more common in women than in men and more common in older adults than in younger ones. It is not, however, a normal part of aging.
Loss of bowel control can be devastating. People who have fecal incontinence may feel ashamed, embarrassed, or humiliated. Some don't want to leave the house out of fear they might have an accident in public. Most try to hide the problem as long as possible, so they withdraw from friends and family. The social isolation is unfortunate but may be reduced because treatment can improve bowel control and make incontinence easier to manage.
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