Anal Pain: Gastrointestinal Issues or Something More?

Anal pain

Hello Doctor: I have adenomyosis and a retroverted uterus.
Recently, I have been taking traditional Chinese medicine to regulate my body.
I have been having bowel movements about three times a day, and the medicine seems to cause a bit of diarrhea, which the Chinese medicine practitioner said is normal.
Before taking the medicine, my bowel movements were already smooth, but for the past three to four days, I have been experiencing significant pain in the lower sides of my abdomen, and my stools have been watery, resembling diarrhea.
I visited a small clinic, and they assessed it as a gastrointestinal issue.
The abdominal pain has improved over the last couple of days, but I still feel cramping sensations.
Additionally, I have a burning and painful sensation around the anus, and I feel the urge to defecate after eating, but the stools remain very loose, occurring about five to six times a day, with no blood present.
Could you please advise if there is an issue with my gastrointestinal tract or my anus?

Sylvia, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/24

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Based on your description, it seems more like gastroenteritis combined with diarrhea.
It is recommended to start with a bland diet and maintain a good daily routine.
Spicy, irritating, and greasy foods should be avoided.
Increasing the intake of dietary fiber may also be helpful.
It is best to temporarily stop using herbal medicine.
If symptoms persist without improvement, it is advisable to consult a physician for examination and treatment.

Reply Date: 2019/03/24

More Info

Understanding anal pain and gastrointestinal issues can be quite complex, especially when multiple factors are at play, such as pre-existing conditions like adenomyosis and the use of traditional Chinese medicine. Your symptoms, including abdominal pain on both sides, frequent watery stools, and anal discomfort, suggest a potential gastrointestinal disturbance, possibly exacerbated by the herbal treatment you are undergoing.

Firstly, the abdominal pain you are experiencing could be related to several gastrointestinal issues. Given that you have been experiencing diarrhea-like symptoms, it is possible that your body is reacting to the herbal medication, which may have a laxative effect. This is not uncommon, especially if the herbs are intended to promote detoxification or stimulate bowel movements. The fact that you were already having regular bowel movements before starting the herbal treatment indicates that your gastrointestinal system was functioning well, and the introduction of these herbs may have disrupted that balance.

The cramping sensation you describe, similar to menstrual cramps, could be due to increased intestinal motility caused by the herbs. This can lead to spasms in the intestines, resulting in pain. Additionally, the anal burning sensation you are experiencing could be a result of frequent diarrhea, which can irritate the anal area and lead to discomfort. This is often referred to as "diarrhea-associated dermatitis" and can occur when the skin around the anus becomes inflamed due to the acidity of the stool.

It is also important to consider the possibility of other gastrointestinal conditions. For instance, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and discomfort in the anal region. Stress and dietary changes can exacerbate IBS symptoms, and since you mentioned that your bowel movements have increased in frequency and changed in consistency, this could be a contributing factor.

In your case, since you have already consulted a small clinic and received a preliminary diagnosis of gastrointestinal issues, it may be beneficial to follow up with a gastroenterologist for a more comprehensive evaluation. They may recommend further testing, such as stool studies, blood tests, or imaging studies, to rule out infections, inflammatory bowel disease, or other underlying conditions.

In the meantime, here are some suggestions to help manage your symptoms:
1. Dietary Adjustments: Consider keeping a food diary to identify any potential triggers that may worsen your symptoms. Avoiding spicy foods, caffeine, and high-fat meals may help reduce gastrointestinal irritation.

2. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids, especially if you are experiencing diarrhea, to prevent dehydration.

3. Probiotics: Incorporating probiotics into your diet may help restore the balance of good bacteria in your gut, which can be beneficial after experiencing diarrhea.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including the frequency and consistency of your stools, any associated pain, and any changes in your overall health. This information will be valuable for your healthcare provider.

5. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you experience additional symptoms such as fever, severe pain, or blood in your stool, seek medical attention promptly.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be related to gastrointestinal disturbances potentially caused by the herbal treatment, it is essential to consider a comprehensive evaluation to rule out other conditions. Working closely with your healthcare provider will help you find the most effective management strategies for your symptoms and overall health.

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