Symptoms:

The main symptom is a reddish-colored mass that sticks out from the opening of the anus, especially following a bowel movement. The lining of the rectal tissue may visible and may bleed slightly.

Signs and tests:

See the individual conditions.

Treatment:

Call your health care provider if a rectal prolapse occurs. In some cases, the prolapse can be treated at home.

The rectal mucosa must be returned to the rectum manually. A soft, warm, wet cloth is used to apply gentle pressure to the mass to push it back through the anal opening. The affected person should be in a knee-chest position before applying pressure to allow gravity to help return the prolapse.

Immediate surgery for repair is seldom needed. The underlying condition must be treated.

Expectations (prognosis):

Treating the underlying condition usually cures the problem. In otherwise-healthy elderly patients with recurrent rectal prolapse, surgery can repair anatomic problems that predispose them to prolapse.

Complications:

• Constipation
• Malnutrition or malabsorption
• Other complications of the condition that caused the prolapse

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider promptly if there is a rectal prolapse.

Prevention:

Treating the underlying condition usually prevents further rectal prolapse.