Symptoms and Management of Proctitis

Proctitis, an inflammation of the rectum often involving the anal region, typically presents with signs of inflammation such as redness, swelling, warmth, and discomfort. However, the symptoms may not always be clear-cut. A common indicator is a persistent feeling of pressure or fullness in the rectal area, accompanied by unusual discharge.

Common Symptoms

Unlike more intense forms of pain associated with other conditions, the discomfort caused by proctitis tends to be mild. Patients may experience a sensation of moisture or irritation around the anus, which can lead to itching. In some cases, minor gastrointestinal disturbances like diarrhea may occur. It's important to note that symptom severity and presentation can vary significantly from person to person.

Key Characteristics of Discharge

One of the distinguishing features of proctitis is the presence of a foul-smelling but non-purulent discharge. This helps differentiate it from other conditions such as abscesses, which typically produce pus. The sensation of rectal fullness may fluctuate throughout the day, often worsening at night, which can interfere with sleep and overall comfort.

Treatment Options

There are two primary approaches to managing proctitis. Conservative treatment often involves the use of medicated suppositories designed to reduce inflammation and relieve discomfort. Commonly prescribed options include mesalazine suppositories, Pujisan hemorrhoid suppositories, Ma Yinglong hemorrhoid suppositories, or Gangtai suppositories. Another effective method is retention enema therapy, where solutions such as Phellodendron liquid or Kangfuxin liquid are administered directly into the rectum.

Administering Retention Enemas

During enema treatment, patients are usually advised to lie down while approximately 100ml of the solution is introduced into the rectum. Following this, alternating positions such as supine, lateral, and prone are recommended to ensure even distribution of the medication. The solution should be retained for about 1 to 2 hours to allow sufficient contact time for the medication to take effect on the affected areas.

Advanced Intervention

If inflammation progresses to the formation of an early abscess or involves the anal sinuses, a minor surgical procedure such as anal sinus incision and drainage may be necessary. This helps prevent the development of more serious complications and supports faster recovery.