TENESMUS Meaning and
Definition
-
Tenesmus is a medical condition characterized by a persistent and often painful urge to evacuate the bowels or bladder, despite the absence or minimal presence of stool or urine. The term originates from the Greek word "tenesmos," meaning "straining."
In individuals with tenesmus, they feel an intense, urgent need to pass stool or urine, but the efforts of defecation or urination are usually unproductive or offer minimal relief. It is commonly associated with conditions affecting the gastrointestinal or genitourinary systems, such as inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, urinary tract infections, or prostate disorders.
The symptoms of tenesmus may include a constant feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation, cramping, rectal pain, or straining during defecation. In some cases, it may also be accompanied by rectal bleeding or mucus discharge.
Diagnosis of tenesmus typically involves a thorough medical history review, physical examination, and relevant diagnostic tests, such as laboratory investigations or imaging techniques. Treatment options aim to address the underlying cause and provide symptomatic relief. This may involve medications to manage inflammation or infection, lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, or surgical interventions in severe cases.
It is important for individuals experiencing tenesmus to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and management, as persistent tenesmus can significantly impact quality of life and may be indicative of an underlying health condition requiring treatment.
-
A painful spasm of the anal or vesical sphincter, with an urgent desire to evacuate the bowel or bladder, involuntary straining, and the passage of but little fecal matter or urine.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
-
In med., a constant desire to go to stool, with great straining, but no discharge.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for TENESMUS
Etymology of TENESMUS
The word "tenesmus" has its origins in the Greek language. It comes from the Greek word "tenesmos" (τενεσμός), which means "a straining, an effort" or "to stretch, to extend". This term was then borrowed into Latin as "tenesmus", which later made its way into English and other languages. In medical terminology, "tenesmus" refers to a condition characterized by a continual or recurrent need to pass stool or urine, accompanied by an inability to do so or with only a minimal release.
Similar spelling words for TENESMUS
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
