A convenient life starts with anorectal health

Author: Zhang Juanhong Gansu Qingyang Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital

Reviewer: Zuo Lingni, Chief Physician, Qingyang Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Gansu Province

In daily life, anorectal health is often a part that we easily overlook but is crucial. As the end of the digestive system, the health of the anorectal directly affects our quality of life. Today, let us walk into the "anorectal world" together, unveil its mystery, and learn the anorectal knowledge that you must know.

1. Basic knowledge of anorectal

First of all, we need to know what the anorectum is. In a narrow sense, the anorectum mainly includes the rectum and the anus, which together constitute the last link of our digestive system. The anorectum is not only responsible for absorbing water from the stool and shaping it, but also bears the responsibility of storing and eventually excreting waste from the body. Therefore, the health of the anorectum is crucial to maintaining our overall physical health.

Rectum: The rectum is the last section of the intestine, connecting the large intestine and the anus. It is mainly responsible for storing food residues after absorption by the large intestine, which is what we usually call feces. When the feces in the rectum accumulates to a certain amount, it will trigger the defecation reflex, making us feel the urge to defecate.

Anus: The opening at the end of the digestive tract, and also the final exit for our defecation. It is not only the channel for feces to be discharged, but also the last barrier for bacteria and other microorganisms to enter the body.

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2. Physiological functions of anorectal

The physiological function of the anorectum is mainly reflected in the processing and excretion of stool. When food is processed by the digestive system, it eventually becomes stool and enters the rectum. The rectum absorbs the water and electrolytes in it, making the stool gradually take shape. At the same time, the pressure receptors in the rectum will constantly monitor the amount and nature of the stool. When it reaches a certain amount, it will send a signal to the brain, making us feel the urge to defecate. At this time, through the relaxation and contraction of the anal sphincter, we can control the discharge of stool.

In addition to the excretion function, the anorectal area also has a certain immune function. The skin and mucous membranes around the anus are rich in lymphatic tissue, which can identify and eliminate pathogens that enter the body and prevent infection.

3. Common anorectal diseases and their prevention

Although the anorectal area plays an important role in our body, it is also susceptible to diseases for various reasons. Here are some common anorectal diseases and how to prevent them:

Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids are one of the common diseases in anorectal medicine, and the main symptoms are anal itching, pain, bleeding, etc. The occurrence of hemorrhoids is related to long-term sitting, constipation, diarrhea and other factors. The key to preventing hemorrhoids is to maintain a balanced diet, eat more vegetables and fruits, avoid spicy and irritating foods; exercise moderately, avoid sitting for a long time; keep the anal area clean and dry.

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Anal fissure: Anal fissure refers to the rupture or tear of the skin of the anal canal. Its main symptoms are anal pain and bleeding during defecation. The occurrence of anal fissure is often related to factors such as constipation and dry stool. To prevent anal fissure, you need to keep your bowels open and avoid straining during defecation; eat more fiber-rich foods to increase intestinal peristalsis.

Perianal abscess: Perianal abscess is an acute suppurative infection in the soft tissue around the anus or in the space around it. Its main symptoms are persistent throbbing pain, redness, swelling, fever, etc. The prevention of perianal abscess mainly lies in keeping the anal area clean and dry; avoiding scratching the skin around the anus; and timely treatment of anal diseases such as hemorrhoids and anal fissures.

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4. Treatment of anorectal diseases

For anorectal diseases that have already occurred, we need to choose the appropriate treatment method according to the condition. Generally speaking, minor anorectal problems such as hemorrhoids can be relieved by medication in the early stages; while for serious conditions such as perianal abscesses, surgical treatment may be required. Surgical treatment includes traditional open surgery and minimally invasive surgery. The specific method to be selected depends on the patient's specific situation.

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As an important part of our body, the health of the anorectal system is directly related to our quality of life. Therefore, we need to understand anorectal knowledge and pay attention to anorectal health. By maintaining good living habits and eating habits, exercising moderately, and performing regular anorectal examinations, we can effectively prevent the occurrence and development of anorectal diseases. At the same time, we also need to actively face anorectal diseases that have already occurred, choose appropriate treatment methods, and strengthen daily health care to promote physical recovery.