Proctalgia fugax Flashcards
What is it?
a severe anorectal pain of unknown origin
can last from a few seconds to several minutes
occurs unpredictably and at irregular intervals.
It is thought to affect 8% to 14% of the general population.
It may be caused by spasm of the muscles of pelvis supporting the lower colon.
It does not lead to any other problems with the bowel such as diverticulitis, ulcerative colitis, haemorrhoids or bowel cancer.
Main features:
fleeting rectal pain
varies from mild discomfort to severe spasm
lasts 3–30 mins
often wakes patient at night
a functional bowel disorder
affects adults, usu. professional males
Management
Explanation and reassurance
Salbutamol inhaler (2 puffs statim) or
glyceryl trinitrate SL spray statim or
quinine sulphate before retiring worth a trial