Difference between colitis and rectal cancer

Written by Wang Hui Jie
Gastroenterology
Updated on September 03, 2024
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The differences between proctitis and rectal cancer are that under endoscopy, proctitis can present with patchy congestion, with or without mucus, and unclear vascular patterns. In contrast, rectal cancer can present with a protruding mass, which may have an uneven surface, cauliflower-like changes, and possibly congested erosion, among other conditions. It could also simply be a very superficial lesion, and the texture is often more brittle, possibly involving the entire circumference of the colon, preventing the passage of a colonoscope. Clinically, proctitis may present with symptoms such as increased frequency of bowel movements, incomplete evacuation, and sticky stools that may contain mucus. Rectal cancer, on the other hand, may present with symptoms such as bloody stools, positive fecal occult blood, abdominal pain, etc.

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Written by Zhu Dan Hua
Gastroenterology
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Does proctitis require surgery?

Proctitis is a common clinical disease that can be asymptomatic or can present with recurrent discomfort symptoms such as abnormal stool, displaying characteristics like loose stool texture, increased frequency of defecation, or digestive bleeding accompanied by fresh red blood along with abnormal stool. If there are no specific abdominal symptoms and the stool condition is manageable, generally, surgical treatment is not necessary. Instead, dietary adjustments and rest can be made, including appropriate medication when necessary. Medication options may include suppositories, such as mesalazine suppositories, and oral probiotics for adjustment. Therefore, if there are truly no space-occupying lesions and no issues found in colonoscopy, surgical treatment may not be required for proctitis. It is advised to manage with medication and further adjust with oral probiotics, so there is no need for worry. (Please follow a professional physician's guidance when using medications and do not self-medicate.)

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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Is rectitis hemorrhoids?

Proctitis and hemorrhoids have fundamental differences. Proctitis is an inflammation that occurs in the rectum and its mucosa, related to infection by pathogens. Typical symptoms include diarrhea and abdominal pain, with severe cases presenting mucus or pus and bloody stools. Hemorrhoids, on the other hand, are caused by the distension of hemorrhoidal veins; internal hemorrhoids lead to bleeding after bowel movements, and external hemorrhoids cause significant pain. Proctitis is generally treated with medications or can also be managed with enemas. Hemorrhoids are mainly treated with medications that reduce bleeding and medications that treat the hemorrhoids, and they can also be treated surgically. (Medication use should be supervised by a doctor.)

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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Is prolonged sitting harmful to proctitis?

Prolonged sitting does not significantly harm proctitis, but if a patient sits for extended periods, it might lead to the occurrence of hemorrhoids. Therefore, it is generally advised not to sit for too long and to engage in appropriate amounts of exercise, adopting a balanced approach to physical activity. Patients with proctitis may experience symptoms like mucoid stools, purulent stools, bloody stools, and a sensation of incomplete evacuation after defecation. Therefore, in terms of diet, it is recommended not to consume overly spicy or stimulating foods. Instead, opt for foods that are easy to digest and bland. Treatment can include the use of medications such as mesalazine or sulfasalazine.

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Written by Zhu Dan Hua
Gastroenterology
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Can I take Intestine Inflammation Relief for proctitis?

Rectitis is quite common in clinical settings, and oral Intestine Inflammation Relief can generally be chosen for treatment without issues. Typically, the symptoms of rectitis include discomfort in the lower left abdomen and abnormal stools, particularly diarrhea, where the stool is watery or there is a feeling of rectal prolapse among others. For patients with rectitis, besides choosing oral Intestine Inflammation Relief for treatment, it's important to pay attention to diet and rest, ensure smooth bowel movements, and avoid constipation. Additionally, other oral medications can be used, such as laxatives and drugs to protect the intestinal mucosa, which generally have a good effect in treating inflammation of the intestines. However, rectitis generally does not involve symptoms of bloody stools. If a patient experiences bloody stools during treatment, commonly referred to as stools with blood, it is advised to continue diagnosis and treatment at a local hospital. It is particularly suggested to complete a colonoscopy to further rule out conditions such as hemorrhoids or intestinal tumors.

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Written by Huang Gang
Gastroenterology
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What will happen if rectitis gets worse?

If proctitis worsens, it should be treated promptly through surgery. Surgical removal can help prevent spread and prolong life. After surgery, it is also necessary to kill cancer cells through radiotherapy and chemotherapy. If proctitis is not properly managed, frequent recurrences can lead to erosion and even ulcers, which can easily become cancerous. Therefore, regular follow-up colonoscopies are essential to monitor changes in the condition and assess whether there is a high or low chance of deterioration. After surgery, attention should also be paid to a bland diet, avoiding irritant foods.