What Are the Symptoms of Chronic Proctitis?
Some people may experience poor appetite, frequent abdominal bloating, gradual weight loss, diarrhea, or constipation. These symptoms may be caused by chronic proctitis, a chronic inflammatory disease of the rectum. However, chronic proctitis can manifest in many other ways as well. Let's take a closer look at its symptoms and dietary considerations.
Chronic proctitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the rectum, primarily characterized by frequent diarrhea or alternating diarrhea and constipation. Stools may contain mucus or blood, and patients may experience discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen or coccyx area. Other symptoms include anal itching, poor appetite, abdominal bloating, weight loss, and cold extremities. Rectal examination may reveal decreased elasticity of the rectal mucosa, granular protrusions, or scarring and narrowing. Under rectal endoscopy, the rectal mucosa may appear swollen, thickened, irregular, eroded, or ulcerated, with mucus, pus, or bloody discharge, or atrophy and roughness.
It is important to include protein and vitamin-rich foods in the diet. Easily digestible high-quality protein sources such as fish, eggs, and legumes, as well as fresh leafy vegetables rich in vitamins, should be incorporated into daily meals. It is advisable to consume vegetable juices to reduce fiber intake, as patients with chronic proctitis often have poor digestive and absorptive functions. A semi-liquid, low-residue, and small, frequent meals diet is recommended to enhance nutrition.
Foods that are excessively acidic or sweet and can irritate ulcerated areas should be avoided, including spicy foods, raw onions, garlic, concentrated fruit juices, coffee, alcohol, and strong tea. High-salt foods such as ham, bacon, and pickled vegetables should also be limited as excessive salt intake can damage the mucosa and exacerbate the condition. Processed and fried foods, such as french fries and smoked meats, should be avoided. Patients should maintain a bland diet and control their fat intake.
