Dr. Mohammed Hatem AlsubaihWhat is tenesmus?
Tenesmus is a repeated or persistent urge to pass stool despite little output or after emptying. It differs from simply having hard stool and may include rectal pressure, mucus or blood.
What can cause it?
Rectal inflammation, infection, evacuation problems or a space-occupying lesion can produce this sensation. Symptoms alone cannot distinguish them. Mention onset, previous bowel inflammation and pelvic radiotherapy.
Should I increase laxatives?
Not automatically. If stool is already soft, more laxative may not address persistent urgency. Examination and sometimes stool testing or endoscopy are needed instead of assuming constipation.
What should I tell the clinician?
Describe attempts, stool output, pain, bleeding and night-time symptoms. A new persistent sensation warrants assessment, especially with weight loss or bleeding. Severe pain with fever or heavy bleeding needs urgent care.
Sources and preparation
References support general information; preparation examples and questions do not select an individual treatment plan.
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