Rectal Inflammation Bleeding Treatment

Rectal inflammation and bleeding can be caused by hemorrhoids, fissures, fistulas, Crohn's disease, colitis, or Celiac disease. In older persons. rectal bleeding may occur because of diverticulosis, rectal prolapse or the presence of large polyps, which may become cancerous. People older than 40 and those with a family history of colon cancer should check with a physician if rectal bleeding occurs.

Hemorrhoids

• Bright red blood in the toilet is frequently a sign of hemorrhoids. These are varicosities, or weak and broken spots in veins in the rectum. Often inherited and made worse by pregnancy, chronic constipation and lack of exercise, bumps may be palpable on the outside of the rectum. Hemorrhoids may also be inside, where they are more likely to bleed. Herbal sitz baths with witch hazel, comfrey and plantain will stop bleeding and relieve swelling and pain. Grated raw potato can also ease pain and reduce swelling. Eat a diet high in fiber and drink plenty of fluids. Practice kegel exercises, or tightening the anal sphincter gradually and holding for several seconds before releasing gradually, up to 50 times a day. This exercise increases circulation and strengthens supportive muscles.

Fistula/Fissure/Crohn's Disease

• Fistulas are abnormal openings that may discharge or bleed. They can be associated with Crohn's disease, an auto-immune chronic inflammation of the intestines. Persistent fistulas may need surgery and medications may relieve some symptoms of Crohn's disease. A fissure is a tear in mucosal tissues, usually caused by constipation. A diet high in raw green leafy vegetables, other vegetables and fruits with plenty of fresh water or juices is healing. High potency vitamins may also be helpful to offset any malabsorption of dietary nutrients.

Diverticulosis

• Over time, the lining of the bowel may form pockets that cause pain and bleeding. Diverticulitis is the term used when such pockets become infected. This condition is associated with chronic constipation and can be remedied with a whole foods diet high in fiber.

Colitis/Proctitis/Celiac Disease

• Inflammation, ulceration and bleeding of the colon wall is called colitis. In proctitis, the condition is localized in the rectum. The pain of colitis may be felt as abdominal cramps, diarrhea and urgency. Colitis has varied causes--one is an intolerance for gluten or celiac disease. Abstaining from products made with wheat, barley and rye, including hidden ingredients such as malt flavoring, msg and grain vinegar will relieve symptoms. In addition to eliminating gluten, you may need to avoid milk, cheese and other dairy products, at least temporarily. They can often be added back into the diet once gluten-induced damage has healed. Some people have had success following a vegan raw foods diet of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds to heal colitis.

Polyps/Cancer

• Growths in the bowel called polyps may become inflamed and bleed when they become large enough to be subject to irritation. Polyps are not malignant by themselves, but they can become cancerous. A colonoscopy is an important screening tool done routinely for people over age 50 that can detect and remove polyps before they cause serious problems. Colon cancer when detected early is very treatable.

Prolapse

• As people age, tissues lose elasticity and can fall and protrude from the rectum and bleed. Women are more at risk of prolapse, probably due to childbirth practices. The prolapse is felt as a bulge when wiping. Kegel exercises and inverted postures may help, but surgical repair is the best remedy for severe prolapse.