Rectal Disorders: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Rectal Disorders?
A gastroenterologist, a doctor who treats digestive diseases, usually treats rectal disorders. A colorectal surgeon, a surgeon who treats the colon and rectum, may also help. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What are rectal disorders?
The rectum is the lower part of your large intestine where your body stores stool. Problems with the rectum are common. They include hemorrhoids, abscesses, incontinence and cancer. Treatments vary depending on the particular problem.
Proctitis is inflammation of the lining of the rectum. Rectal prolapse happens when the rectum sags and comes through the anal opening.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on the problem. Common symptoms of proctitis include:
- Diarrhea or constipation.
- Pain.
- Passing blood, mucus, or pus with your stool.
The main symptom of rectal prolapse is a reddish mass that sticks out from the anus. It is seen most often after a bowel movement. This mass may bleed slightly and can be uncomfortable and painful.
Causes and who gets it
Common causes of proctitis are inflammatory bowel disease, infections, and radiation therapy. Ostomy surgery of the bowel is another common cause. The exact cause of rectal prolapse is unclear. Possible causes include constipation, diarrhea, and chronic coughing and sneezing. Relaxed muscles in the pelvic floor can also be a cause. These are the muscles around the rectum.
Rectal prolapses occur most often in children under age 6 years. In adults, it usually occurs in people with constipation. It also occurs in people with a muscle or nerve problem in the pelvic or genital area.
How doctors diagnose it
For proctitis, doctors ask about your medical history and do a physical exam. They also order tests to find the cause. Tests may include blood tests, stool tests, and a rectal culture. They may also include endoscopy tests such as colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy.
For rectal prolapse, your health care provider will do a physical exam that includes a rectal exam. The provider may ask you to bear down while sitting on a toilet. A colonoscopy can confirm the diagnosis. A blood test can check for anemia if there is bleeding from the rectum.
Treatment
Doctors may recommend medicines to treat proctitis caused by inflammatory bowel disease or infections. Surgery may be needed if proctitis leads to complications or if other treatments do not work.
In some cases, a rectal prolapse can be treated at home. Follow your provider's instructions on how to do this. In children, treating the cause often solves the problem. In adults, surgery usually cures the prolapse. When a rectal prolapse is not treated, constipation and loss of bowel control may develop.
When to see a doctor
Seeing your doctor about problems in this area is important. This is especially true if you have pain or bleeding. Contact your provider right away if there is a rectal prolapse. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have bleeding that will not stop, severe belly pain, or fainting.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either kind of doctor can talk through pain or bleeding. They can arrange first tests and refer you to a specialist. They can also help coordinate follow-up care.
Common questions
Should I see a doctor right away for a rectal prolapse?
Yes, contact your provider right away if there is a rectal prolapse. Immediate surgery is rarely needed.
Should I see a doctor for pain or bleeding from the rectum?
Yes. Seeing your doctor about problems in this area is important, especially if you have pain or bleeding.
What is proctitis?
Proctitis is inflammation of the lining of the rectum. It can be short-term or long-term.
Does rectal prolapse happen in children?
Yes. Rectal prolapses occur most often in children under age 6 years. In children, treating the cause often solves the problem.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Rectal Disorders
- MedlinePlus - Rectal prolapse
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases - Proctitis
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
