Rectal prolapse and hemorrhoids are two different conditions that may have similar symptoms. Both conditions involve the rectum and anal area and can cause discomfort and embarrassment.

However, there are some crucial differences between rectal prolapse and hemorrhoids that you should know, to help you identify and treat the problem effectively. In this article, we will discuss those differences.

What is Rectal Prolapse?

Rectal prolapse refers to the protrusion or prolapse of the rectal wall through the anus. In this condition, the rectum turns inside out and comes out of the body.

Rectal prolapse is often associated with old age, chronic constipation, and weakened pelvic floor muscles. The symptoms of rectal prolapse may include:.

• Feeling a lump or mass that protrudes from the anus
• Pain and discomfort in the rectal area
• Leakage of stool and mucus
• Difficulty passing stool
• Bleeding from the rectum

Rectal prolapse is a severe condition that requires medical attention. It can lead to complications such as anal incontinence, infections, and even tissue death in severe cases.

Treatment options for rectal prolapse may include surgery, medication, and lifestyle changes, depending on the severity of the condition.

What are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids refer to swollen veins in the rectal and anal area. Hemorrhoids are a common condition and may affect people of all ages.

The cause of hemorrhoids is not known, but they are often associated with straining during bowel movements, sitting for prolonged periods, and obesity. The symptoms of hemorrhoids may include:.

• Anal itching and irritation
• Pain and discomfort in the anal area
• Bleeding from the rectum
• Swelling and inflammation around the anus

Hemorrhoids are classified into two types: internal and external hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids occur inside the rectum, while external hemorrhoids occur outside the anus.

Hemorrhoids are generally not severe and can be treated with home remedies, over-the-counter medication, and lifestyle changes. In rare cases, surgery may be needed to remove hemorrhoids that do not respond to other treatments.

Related Article Hemorrhoids vs. Anal Fissures: What’s the Difference?

Differences Between Rectal Prolapse and Hemorrhoids

Rectal prolapse and hemorrhoids may have similar symptoms, but there are some crucial differences between the two conditions. Here are some of the main differences:.

Appearance

The appearance of rectal prolapse and hemorrhoids is different. With rectal prolapse, the rectal wall protrudes through the anus and appears as a reddish lump or mass. The lump may be moist and mucus-covered.

On the other hand, hemorrhoids appear as swollen veins around the anus. External hemorrhoids may appear as soft lumps or bumps, while internal hemorrhoids are not visible but may cause bleeding during bowel movements.

Pain

Pain is a common symptom of both conditions, but the type and severity of pain may differ. With rectal prolapse, the pain is typically deep and aching and may worsen during bowel movements.

Rectal prolapse may also cause shooting pain and a feeling of fullness or heaviness in the rectal area. In contrast, hemorrhoids may cause sharp, burning pain during bowel movements or sitting. The pain may be accompanied by itching or irritation around the anus.

Treatment

The treatment for rectal prolapse and hemorrhoids is different. While hemorrhoids can usually be treated with home remedies and over-the-counter medication, rectal prolapse requires medical attention and may need surgery.

Treatment options for rectal prolapse may include:.

• Surgery to repair the rectal wall and the pelvic floor muscles
• Medications to improve bowel movements and reduce inflammation
• Bowel training to improve bowel function and reduce straining
• Lifestyle changes such as a high-fiber diet and regular exercise

Hemorrhoids, on the other hand, can be treated with the following:.

• Over-the-counter creams and ointments to reduce itching and pain
• Stool softeners and laxatives to ease bowel movements
• Hemorrhoidectomy to remove the hemorrhoids surgically
• Rubber band ligation to cut off the blood supply to the hemorrhoids

Conclusion

Rectal prolapse and hemorrhoids are two different conditions that can cause discomfort and embarrassment.

Though they may have similar symptoms, rectal prolapse requires immediate attention and may need surgery, while hemorrhoids can usually be treated with home remedies and over-the-counter medications. It’s important to talk to your doctor if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above to get the right diagnosis and treatment.