Hard Bumps in the Rectal Wall: Causes and Concerns - Surgery

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The presence of hard bumps in the rectal wall can be concerning, especially when accompanied by symptoms such as difficulty with bowel movements, pain, or unusual sensations. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a combination of symptoms that may be related to several underlying conditions.

Firstly, the "hard bumps" you feel upon examination may be indicative of several possibilities. One common cause could be hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in the rectal area that can become hard and painful, especially if they are thrombosed (clotted). However, since you mentioned that the bumps do not hurt, this may suggest that they are not typical hemorrhoids. Another possibility could be rectal polyps or other benign growths, which can sometimes feel firm upon palpation.

Your history of difficulty with bowel movements and the sensation of a "hard thing" pressing against your intestines could suggest a few things. One potential issue is rectal stricture, which is a narrowing of the rectum that can make it difficult to pass stool. This could be due to inflammation, scarring from previous injuries, or even pressure from nearby structures, such as your uterine fibroids. Fibroids can indeed exert pressure on the rectum, leading to symptoms such as constipation or a feeling of fullness.

The presence of white mucus in your stool can also be a sign of irritation in the gastrointestinal tract. This could be related to your diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can cause changes in bowel habits, including mucus production. IBS is often characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits, which can include both constipation and diarrhea.

Regarding your previous colonoscopy, it is important to note that while this procedure is generally effective in ruling out significant pathology, it may not always detect smaller lesions or conditions that could be causing your symptoms. If you were experiencing significant discomfort during the procedure, it is possible that the examination was not as thorough as it could have been.
Given your symptoms and history, it is crucial to follow up with a healthcare provider, preferably a gastroenterologist or a colorectal specialist. They may recommend further imaging studies, such as an MRI or a more detailed colonoscopy, to assess the rectal area and any potential structural issues. Additionally, they may consider other diagnostic tests to evaluate for conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or other gastrointestinal disorders.

In the meantime, managing your symptoms is important. Increasing dietary fiber, staying hydrated, and possibly using stool softeners can help alleviate constipation. However, it is essential to avoid self-diagnosing and to seek professional medical advice to determine the exact cause of your symptoms and to receive appropriate treatment.

In summary, the hard bumps you are feeling in the rectal wall could be related to several conditions, including hemorrhoids, rectal polyps, or pressure from fibroids. Your history of bowel difficulties and the presence of mucus suggest that further evaluation is necessary. Consulting with a healthcare professional will provide you with the best course of action to address your symptoms and ensure your overall health.