Tenesmus
Definition
Tenesmus is the constant feeling of the need to empty the bowel, accompanied by pain, cramping, and involuntary straining efforts.
Alternative Names
Pain - passing stool; Painful stools; Difficulty passing stoolConsiderations
Tenesmus is generally associated with inflammatory diseases of the bowel, which may be caused by an infection or by other conditions. Tenesmus is characterized by a sensation of needing to pass stool, accompanied by pain, cramping, and straining. Despite straining, little stool is passed.
Causes
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Crohn's disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Anorectal abscess
- Infectious colitis (infection of the colon)
- Colorectal cancer or tumors
- Radiation proctitis or colitis (inflammation of the colon or rectum from radiation)
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