Proctitis is inflammation of the lining of the rectum—the final portion of the large intestine that ends at the anus. This condition can be acute or chronic and may result from infection, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), radiation therapy, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Proctitis can cause discomfort and affect bowel habits.
Depending on the cause, proctitis may affect only the rectum or be part of a broader condition involving the entire colon, such as ulcerative colitis. Prompt evaluation is important to determine the underlying cause and guide effective treatment.
Proctitis can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life, especially when it leads to rectal bleeding, urgency, or pain. Left untreated, it may result in complications like anemia, ulceration, or chronic rectal discomfort. Proper diagnosis and management are key to symptom relief and avoiding long-term issues.
