The term "rectal prolapse" is spelled as /rɛktəl prəʊlæpsɪz/ using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable "rectal" is pronounced as /rɛktəl/, with the stress on the first syllable. "Prolapse" is pronounced as /prəʊlæps/, with the stress on the second syllable. The final "es" in "prolapses" indicates that the word is in its plural form. Rectal prolapses refer to a condition where the rectum turns inside out and protrudes outside the anus, requiring medical attention.
Rectal prolapse refers to a medical condition wherein a part or the entire rectum protrudes outside the anus, turning inside out. The rectum is the final segment of the large intestine, responsible for storing and eliminating feces from the body through the anus. A prolapse occurs when the rectal walls weaken, causing the rectum to slip or slide out of the anal opening.
Rectal prolapses are classified into different types based on their severity and extent. One form is known as a mucosal prolapse, where the inner lining of the rectum protrudes and can be seen as a reddish-colored mass outside the anus. Another type is a complete prolapse, which involves the entire thickness of the rectal wall pushing through the anus, resembling a fleshy bulge often described as a "red sock" or "pink doughnut."
Rectal prolapses can occur due to various factors, including chronic constipation, weakened pelvic muscles, pregnancy, childbirth, aging, straining during bowel movements, or certain medical conditions such as cystic fibrosis or parasitic infections. Symptoms of rectal prolapse can range from a feeling of fullness or discomfort in the rectum to the presence of a visible mass outside the anus and potential difficulties with bowel movements.
Treatment options for rectal prolapse differ depending on the severity and individual circumstances, which may include non-surgical approaches such as dietary changes, pelvic floor exercises, stool softeners, or laxatives. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to correct the prolapse and strengthen the rectal and pelvic muscles to prevent recurrences. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of rectal prolapses.
The word "rectal" refers to something related to the rectum, which is the final straight portion of the large intestine in humans. It comes from the Latin word "rectum" meaning "straight".
"Prolapse" is derived from the Latin word "prolapsus", which means "a slipping forth or down". It generally refers to the displacement or falling down of an organ or part from its normal position.
Therefore, the term "rectal prolapse" is a medical term used to describe the condition where the rectum protrudes or falls down from its normal position into or outside the anus.