Pain During Bowel Movement – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Pain During Bowel Movement – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment at Emirates Hospitals Group

At Emirates Hospitals Group, we understand that experiencing pain during bowel movements can be distressing and affect your overall well-being. This type of pain may range from mild discomfort to intense pain, and it can be caused by various conditions. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial to alleviating symptoms and improving your quality of life.

Causes of Pain During Bowel Movement

Several factors can contribute to pain during bowel movements, including:

• Hemorrhoids – Swollen blood vessels in the rectal or anal area, which can cause sharp pain, itching, or bleeding during bowel movements.
• Anal Fissures – Small tears or cracks in the skin around the anus can cause intense pain, especially when passing stool.
• Constipation – Straining to pass hard stool can lead to discomfort or pain during bowel movements. Chronic constipation may also exacerbate conditions like hemorrhoids or fissures.
• Proctitis – Inflammation of the lining of the rectum, often caused by infection, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or radiation therapy, can lead to pain during bowel movements.
• Anal Abscess or Fistula – A painful infection in the anal glands can result in swelling, pain, and difficulty passing stool. A fistula is an abnormal tunnel that can develop after an abscess.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) – A gastrointestinal disorder that can cause cramping, bloating, and pain, which may worsen during or after a bowel movement.
• Pelvic Floor Dysfunction – Conditions affecting the muscles that support the pelvic organs can lead to pain or difficulty during bowel movements.
• Infections – Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections in the digestive tract or anus can lead to pain, irritation, or inflammation during bowel movements.
• Rectal Prolapse – This occurs when part of the rectum protrudes through the anus, causing pain and discomfort, especially during bowel movements.
• Colorectal Cancer – Though rare, tumors in the colon or rectum can cause pain, bleeding, and discomfort during bowel movements.

Diagnosis of Pain During Bowel Movement

A comprehensive evaluation is required to identify the cause of pain during bowel movements. Diagnostic methods may include:

• Physical Examination – A doctor will examine the rectal and anal areas to check for signs of hemorrhoids, fissures, or infections.
• Medical History – Understanding your diet, bowel habits, and any underlying medical conditions to help pinpoint potential causes.
• Endoscopy or Colonoscopy – These procedures involve inserting a camera into the rectum or colon to examine the gastrointestinal tract for signs of inflammation, tumors, or other abnormalities.
• Stool Tests – To detect infections or gastrointestinal conditions that may be contributing to pain.
• Imaging Studies – X-rays, CT scans, or MRI may be used to look for structural abnormalities such as rectal prolapse or signs of cancer.

Treatment for Pain During Bowel Movement

At Emirates Hospitals Group, our specialists offer personalized treatment plans to manage pain during bowel movements. Treatment options may include:

• Dietary Modifications – Increasing fiber intake, drinking plenty of fluids, and avoiding foods that can irritate the bowel may help prevent constipation and ease bowel movements.
• Stool Softeners or Laxatives – These can help relieve constipation and reduce strain during bowel movements.
• Topical Treatments – Over-the-counter creams or ointments for hemorrhoids or anal fissures to soothe pain and reduce inflammation.
• Sitz Baths – Soaking the affected area in warm water for 10–15 minutes can provide relief from pain and help heal anal fissures or hemorrhoids.
• Medications – Anti-inflammatory drugs or antibiotics may be prescribed for conditions like proctitis or infections.
• Physical Therapy – For pelvic floor dysfunction, exercises to strengthen and relax the pelvic muscles may help ease pain and improve bowel movement.
• Minimally Invasive Procedures – Procedures like rubber band ligation for hemorrhoids or Botox injections for pelvic floor dysfunction can offer relief without the need for surgery.
• Surgical Intervention – In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to treat conditions like anal fissures, rectal prolapse, or colorectal cancer.

If you are experiencing pain during bowel movements, it is essential to consult with a specialist at Emirates Hospitals Group. Early diagnosis and treatment can help you manage symptoms and improve your overall digestive health.

Related Treatments

• Endometriosis Clinic
• Anal Fissure