Hemorrhoids, a condition where the rectal and anal veins weaken and distend because of impaired venous blood flow, can cause one or more layers of the rectum to protrude or stick out through the anus. This condition is termed a prolapse. Although the occurrence of this condition and hemorrhoids does not occur frequently, the protrusion of the rectum necessitates a physician consultation. Prolapse associated with hemorrhoid development usually occurs in cases of prolonged rectal and anal venous swelling. Moreover, it was found that the incidence of rectal prolapse is higher in larger internal hemorrhoids.

One kind of lump – you could deal with it. But having two types of lumps? That’s a different story! There is nothing more distressing and embarrassing than to find more than one lump or swelling sticking out of your anus. Moreover, since both conditions can occur in the same area, how can you possibly know which is which? In the succeeding parts, prolapse is further discussed to give you a clearer idea about this condition.

Rectal prolapse, as mentioned, is the protrusion of the rectum wall outside the anus. In this condition, one portion of the rectum telescopes into its immediate adjacent segment, the anus.

The exact cause of prolapse is not completely understood. It is likely that the prolapse is a multifactorial disease, meaning, it is brought about by the interplay of many causes. It is associated with:

• pinworm and whipworm infections
• malnutrition
• malabsorption
• cystic fibrosis
• anal trauma
• constipation

Prolapse is manifested by rectum protrusion during walking or moving a bowel. A sensation of rectal fullness is also commonly reported with a feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation and rectal incontinence.

Prolapse commonly coexists with hemorrhoids – the hemorrhoids do not cause the protrusion of the rectum.

One possible explanation for their coexistence is that both conditions are associated to constant straining that could cause the weakening of the muscles that support the positioning of the rectum. Though they have the same signs and symptoms, they are two separate medical conditions. Prolapse affects a segment of the large intestine above the anus, whereas, hemorrhoids occur in the area near the anal ring. The diagnosis of rectal prolapse is determined by the medical history, manifestations and visual examination of the rectum.

In normal anatomy, the rectum is the located in the latter portion of the large intestine. More specifically, it is located above the anal canal. Through the muscles and ligaments, the rectum is securely fixed and properly positioned. But it in cases where the muscles and ligaments weaken, the rectum’s attachment to the body is also compromised.

During its early stage, the rectum is still attached to the body, but because the connection is not strong as before, the inner lining of the rectum mucosa protrudes from the anus. As the rectum mucosa gets more prolapsed, the ligaments and muscles continue to weaken, which subsequently result in the protrusion of the entire wall of the rectum.

If you have a hemorrhoid with concurrent rectal prolapse, it’s a little assuring to know that complete prolapse of the rectum rarely occurs in hemorrhoids.