Cases of rectal foreign bodies are not unheard of. The vast majority of these foreign bodies are inserted in the anus as a result of sexual misadventure. However, there are a few cases where the foreign body was inserted in the mouth and travels its way through the digestive tract and becomes lodged in the rectum. It is said to be more common in men than women.
The rectum is the part of the digestive tract that leads to the anus, where stool is excreted. Generally, if the rectal foreign body remains lodged in the rectum, it can produce a series of symptoms and may even lead to fatal complications. Although it is not common for systemic infection to occur, removal is still necessary in all cases. The sooner it is removed, the better the prognosis and the better chances of avoiding complications from occurring.
Causes of Rectal Foreign Body
The presence of rectal foreign bodies is either done deliberately or occurs accidentally, although the former is more common. There is a wide range of objects found lodged in rectum, which include:
- Sex toys, such as vibrators and dildos
- Bottles or jars
- Glass or cup
- Toothbrush
- Candles
- Light bulbs or fluorescent tubes or flashlights
- Vegetables
- Broomstick
- Axe handle
- Through the mouth, fish bone, chicken bone, and wood splinters, among others
Symptoms of Rectal Foreign Body
In most cases of presence of rectal foreign body, it is asymptomatic. No signs and symptoms manifest, thus making diagnosis quite difficult. It is often diagnosed through x-rays or CT scans to make sure of item and precise location. In some cases where there is delayed seeking in medical attention, a complication may occur leading to multiple symptoms that include the following:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Rectal bleeding
- Oedema of the rectum
- Bloody diarrhoea
- Fever
First Aid Treatment of Rectal Foreign Body
If one suspects of having a foreign object in the rectum, seek medical care, preferably in an emergency room, to have it removed as soon as possible and avoid any complications from developing. While waiting for medical care, first aid may be applied to reduce symptoms and increase comfort, even partially.
- Do not attempt to remove the foreign body at all times. This may wound the anus and lead to more complications or may result to pushing the foreign body further inside. Sometimes, surgery may be required.
- Amateur attempts may lead to bowel perforation, a fatal medical emergency.
- For victims of sexual abuse, advice the doctor as extra examinations may be required.
Disclaimer: This article should not be used for medical diagnosis or advice. Seek appropriate medical treatment. It is highly encouraged to join in First Aid Courses available all over the country to learn how to treat rectal foreign body and presence of foreign bodies in other body orifices.