Definition of Tenesmus:

Tenesmus involves constantly feeling the need to empty the bowels, along with pain, cramping, and straining.

Considerations:

Tenesmus usually occurs with inflammatory diseases of the bowels. These diseases may be caused by an infection or other conditions.

People with tenesmus feel as though they need to pass stool. Although they strain, they pass little stool.

Common Causes:

• Anorectal abscess
• Colorectal cancer or tumors
• Crohn's disease
• Infection of the colon (infectious colitis)
• Inflammation of the colon or rectum from radiation (radiation proctitis or colitis)
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Ulcerative colitis