Ambulance 912HAP 9252
Back to all symptoms and conditions
General health information

Inflammation of the rectum

With inflammation of the rectum, the last part of the large bowel is irritated and inflamed. Possible symptoms include an urge to pass stool, pain, mucus, diarrhoea and bleeding. Assessment is needed because infections, bowel diseases and radiotherapy each require different treatment.

In this article
Choose which sections to read

With inflammation of the rectum, the last part of the large bowel is irritated and inflamed. Possible symptoms include an urge to pass stool, pain, mucus, diarrhoea and bleeding. Assessment is needed because infections, bowel diseases and radiotherapy each require different treatment.

  • A constant or sudden urge to pass stool, even when the rectum is empty.
  • Pain, burning or a feeling of pressure in the anus or rectum.
  • Drink regularly, especially with diarrhoea, and watch for passing little urine, a dry mouth or dizziness.
  • Avoid anal sexual contact until the cause is known and any treatment is complete.
  • Make an appointment for blood, pus or recurring mucus from the anus, even if you think it is haemorrhoids.
  • For urgent GP care outside office hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediate threat to life.

Your response

Two anonymous questions

Did you find what you were looking for?

Do you now have a clearer idea of your next step?

Share article

Email

Do you need a healthcare provider after reading?

Search by type of care, organisation, name or district.

Further reading

Browse A–Z
U
Ulcerative colitisUlcerative colitis is chronic inflammation of the innermost lining of the large bowel. It causes periods of symptoms such as bloody diarrhoea, urgency, abdominal pain and tiredness, alternating with quieter periods. Treatment reduces inflammation, prevents complications and requires regular check-ups.
A
AppendicitisAppendicitis is inflammation of the appendix that needs urgent care. Pain often starts around the belly button and moves to the lower right side. Symptoms may worsen quickly and hospital treatment is usually needed.
I
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)IBS causes recurrent abdominal pain related to bowel movements and changes in how often you pass stools or how hard they are. There is no visible bowel damage, but the symptoms are real. Bleeding, weight loss, fever or symptoms at night require investigation for another cause.