Polyps

Polyps means "many feet". It is a tumour with a foot or a stem, commonly one half inch in diameter. Polyps are firm and cystic, but are not malignant, but may become cancerous. There may be one or many, are usually found in the sigmoid or rectum and will increase with old age. Polyps are caused by improper diet.

Symptoms are - bleeding, blood in the stools, change in bowel habits, constipation and anaemia.

Bleeding

Bleeding can be caused by haemorrhoids, fissure, proctitis, colitis, diverticulitis, ulcer, polyps, cystitis, hemanginoma, cancer. Rectal bleeding can be caused by any lesion in the gastro-intestinal tract, or cancer. Cancer may produce a coffee ground type stool, with bright red blood.

Distension

Distension can be caused by diverticulitis, intestinal obstruction, flatulence, ascites (may be a liver problem), cancer block, ulcerative colitis, barium enema, codeine, not answering nature's call, volvulus. Obstruction is the main cause of distension and can cause cramp-like colicky abdominal pain. Obstruction can lead to a toxic megacolon.

Fistula

Fistula is an abnormal connection between the interior of the the anal canal or rectum and the skin surface. The fistula may end up back in the large intestine, vagina or small intestine or any other pelvis structures where it will discharge faecal matter. Fistulas usually begin as an anorectal abscess. They can be caused by regional enteritis, tuberculosis, cancer, colitis, diverticulitis and Crohn's Disease. The true cause is constipation. If left untreated, it will spread and the sphincter muscle can be damaged. This muscle controls the closing of the anus.

Signs & Symptoms - skin irritation, gas coming out of the fistulous tract, discharge of pus and stool near the anus, increased pain when fistulas become blocked or abscessed. Fistulas should be treated by anal hygiene, a proper diet, and rejuvenating colon cleansing.

Prolapse (Procidentia)

In this condition, the rectum turns itself inside out. There are two types - incomplete and complete. It can be caused by a lack of bulk in the diet, straining, rectal sex. It occurs more often in the young and very old. The protrusion may extend as far as eight inches and must be pushed back in immediately to avoid swelling. If the condition becomes chronic, mucus, bleeding and loss of sensation may develop. Treatment can include: proper diet, fasting, and immediate replacement of the bowel if projected.

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