Foreign body in the rectum: symptoms, causes, drugs, etc. • hello healthy

x

Definition

What is a foreign body in the rectum?

The rectum is the part of the intestinal tract that ends at the anus, the opening to remove feces from the body. The entry of a foreign object into the rectum or anus can cause dangerous complications. So, it must be issued immediately.

Signs & Symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of a foreign body in the rectum?

Most people who have a foreign object in their rectum have no symptoms at all. This can make diagnosis difficult, especially in children and patients with mental disorders.

In certain cases, delaying getting help can cause complications that cause symptoms, including:

• Stomach ache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Rectal bleeding (for example, seen during bowel movements)

If the foreign object causes inflammation of the abdominal wall, called peritonitis, you will feel your stomach feel very tender.

There may be signs and symptoms not listed above. If you have concerns about a particular symptom, consult your doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

If you are found to have a foreign object in your rectum, immediately go to the hospital to have it removed.

Get medical help right away if you think you have a foreign object in your rectum and have stomach pain, bleeding, or fever.

Cause

What causes the entry of foreign bodies in the rectum?

Most cases begin with an object deliberately inserted into the anus. For example, sex toys (dildos or vibrators). However, sometimes, these foreign objects can be swallowed and travel through the digestive tract and eventually become trapped in the rectum.

Common objects found in the rectum include:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Bottle
• Candle

Foreign objects in the rectum can be found in:

• Children
• Patients with mental disorders (ODGJ)
• Victims of violence (domestic violence / sexual violence)
• Injury in hospital after certain medical tests (for example, a broken tip of the enema catheter)
• People who engage in unsafe sexual activity

Diagnosis & Treatment

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

How do doctors diagnose foreign bodies in the rectum?

Doctors will generally perform a basic physical examination. They will ask you what are the chances of the object in your rectum, how long it has been stuck in there, and what things have you done to try to get it out yourself at home.

Your doctor may also want to know about any symptoms you have, such as stomach pain, fever, and whether you have bleeding in your rectum.

From this information, the doctor can perform further examinations, including an examination of the abdomen and rectum.

• The doctor will ask you to lie on your side to examine your buttocks and anus; are there any blisters, swelling, or tears.
• The doctor will then examine the inside of your rectum by inserting his finger into your anus (wearing rubber gloves).
• Sometimes, the doctor can use an instrument called a protoscope that is inserted into the anus. The protoscope is like a thin tube that can help the doctor see inside your anus.

After the above examinations, the doctor can refer you for an X-ray of the abdomen to be able to know more definitely where the foreign object is. Through this X-ray, the doctor can also find out any air bubbles in your stomach which indicate a perforated intestine.

If you have abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, or fever, an IV will be given immediately and you will be asked to have a blood test.

How to remove foreign objects that enter the rectum?

In some cases, most foreign objects are trapped near the anal canal so that they can be immediately removed in the emergency room of the hospital. Removing the object will be more difficult if the object is caught between the walls of the rectum due to muscle contraction. If this is your case, then:

• The doctor will sometimes insert a small tube to relieve the pressure while removing the object. This procedure can be painful and you will be given an anesthetic.
• If the object goes too deep, it may need to be surgically removed and you will be completely sedated.
• If there are signs of infection in the stomach, perforation of the intestines, or heavy bleeding in the rectum, you will need emergency surgery

After the object has been successfully removed, the doctor will perform a test called a sigmoidoscopy, using a long thin tube (40-45 cm, ≤ 2.5 cm in diameter) to see the inside of the anus. This procedure is performed to determine whether there is damage to the inner wall of the intestine, either from the initial entry of the object or from attempts to pass it. This procedure is performed after the patient is under local or general anesthesia, depending on individual needs.

Please discuss with your doctor for more information. If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.