DEAR DR. GOTT: You once wrote about severe spontaneous rectal spasms. I am experiencing this and am eager to have you respond so I can take your answer to my gynecologist.
DEAR READER: I believe the condition to which you are referring is proctalgia fugax, with pain that can be sharp, stabbing or feel like a cramp at the opening of the anus. A similar condition is Levator Ani Syndrome, a dull pain felt higher up the rectal passage. Proctalgia fugax pain is brief, so treatment isn’t generally necessary. Levator ani can be treated with sitz baths, ibuprofen, naproxen or massage to the muscles.
Prevention is often successful by incorporating a high-fiber diet and drinking plenty of water. Your physician should be able to diagnose you based on your symptoms. If questions arise, a digital exam might be performed so hemorrhoids, a mass or anal fissures can be ruled out.
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