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Home > Medical Reference > Encyclopedia (English)

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Tenesmus - Overview

Alternative Names

Pain - passing stool; Painful stools; Difficulty passing stool

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:

  • Reviewed last on: 8/22/2008
  • Christian Stone, M.D., Division of Gastroenterology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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