Dr. Shauna Lorenzo-Rivero, University Surgical Associates; President-Elect, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical SocietyQ: I hear talk about something called prolapse. What is it and how do I know if I have it?
A: Prolapse means an organ in your body moves below its normal position. Many organs can prolapse, but most common are the bladder, vagina and rectum. Rectal prolapse means the rectum (the end of the colon, located above the anus) turns itself inside out and protrudes. If not treated, it can weaken the anal sphincter muscle, resulting in leakage of stool, mucus or blood. The condition occurs in both sexes, although it is more common in women. It may come from a lifelong habit of straining or as a delayed result of childbirth. The diagnosis is made by performing a complete physical examination. Tests may also be used. Although constipation/straining may cause rectal prolapse, correcting these problems may not improve prolapse once it has developed. Abdominal or rectal surgery may be suggested.
– Dr. Shauna Lorenzo-Rivero, University Surgical Associates; President-Elect, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society
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