Tenesmus? - Answers

Tenesmus is a frequent and ineffective desire to defecate despite having an empty rectum.

Tenesmus may be a symptom of several different conditions, including:

- Inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis

- Infectious diarrhea, such as from C. difficile or Shigella

- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

- Rectal prolapse or rectocele

- Pelvic floor dysfunction

- Cancer of the colon or rectum, although rare

- Other less common causes such as medications, radiation therapy, or spinal cord injuries

Symptoms of tenesmus may include:

- Straining with bowel movements

- Feeling of not being able to empty the bowels despite the sensation of an urgent need to move them

- Rectal pain or heaviness

- Lower abdominal pain and cramps

- Nausea and vomiting

- Fatigue or exhaustion

- Dehydration and weight loss

Tenesmus usually resolves once the underlying cause has been treated. If you are experiencing ongoing tenesmus, it is important to see a doctor for evaluation. Some conditions causing tenesmus can be serious and may require specific medical treatment.