What is the sensation of feeling a rectal or anal heaviness?

Anal descent sensation is a common symptom manifested as a heavy, full, sunken feeling, and even discomfort accompanied by pain in the anal area. It can be caused by various reasons, including hemorrhoids, perianal diseases, pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, etc., significantly affecting an individual's quality of life. It is particularly important to promptly understand the causes and take targeted measures.

1. Common Causes

• ① Hemorrhoids: Internal or external hemorrhoids can lead to a heavy and descending feeling in the anal area due to swelling or protrusion during bowel movements. This condition is exacerbated especially when sitting for long periods or experiencing constipation and may be accompanied by symptoms such as rectal bleeding.
• ② Rectal Prolapse: Partial or complete protrusion of the rectum from the anus often accompanies a descending sensation. It is more common in elderly individuals or postpartum women and may lead to difficulty in defecation when severe.
• ③ Pelvic Floor Muscle Dysfunction: Conditions such as relaxation or damage to pelvic floor muscles, compressing nerve tissue, can cause persistent heaviness in the anus and even issues such as urinary incontinence.
• ④ Anal Fissures or Perianal Infections: Long-term inflammation and pain in the anus may cause a descending sensation, often accompanied by a burning sensation and swelling.
• ⑤ Digestive or Lower Abdominal Diseases: Conditions such as constipation, diarrhea, and enteritis can affect the rectal and anal areas, leading to a descending discomfort.

2. Treatment Methods

• ① Lifestyle Adjustments
  • Increase Dietary Fiber: Consume more vegetables, fruits, oats, etc., to avoid constipation and intestinal inflammation.
  • Regular Exercise: Especially pelvic floor muscle training, which enhances the elasticity of anal and pelvic floor muscles and effectively improves symptoms.
  • Avoid Prolonged Sitting: Appropriate standing and activity can relieve anal congestion and improve local blood circulation.
• ② Medical Treatment
  • Oral Laxatives such as Lactulose: To relieve constipation and reduce pressure on the rectum and anus.
  • Topical Ointments such as Hemorrhoid Cream: To improve local swelling and pain in the anus.
  • Anti-inflammatory or Anti-infective Drugs: These can be used under medical guidance if caused by infection or anal fissures.
• ③ Surgical Treatment
  • Hemorrhoidectomy: For those with severe symptoms unresponsive to prolonged medication, microsurgical removal of hemorrhoids may be considered.
  • Rectal Prolapse Surgery: Laparoscopic or perineal repair of rectal prolapse is suitable for those with severe symptoms.
  • Anal Fissure Repair: Repair of fissures can alleviate symptoms when anal fissures recur repeatedly and severely stimulate anal descent.

Anal descent sensation is often a warning sign that cannot be ignored. The underlying causes should be taken seriously and treated promptly. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention promptly and follow the guidance of a professional doctor to avoid more serious health risks.