Proctalgia Fugax-Treatment, Causes, Prevention


Proctalgia Fugax is a sudden, sharp pain in the anus; so sharp that it can awake you from sleep. This pain lasts for a few moments and then disappears totally as swiftly as it came, making you think that it was just a dream. 

Proctalgia Fugax is basically an excruciating, fleeting pain felt in the anus.  It is also depicted as anal spasm, anal cramp, Dani spasm, recurring spasm of the anus and “anal Charlie horse” as it is comparable to strong involuntary spasm of the leg muscles.  It usually happens in the middle of the night, although, it can happen any time of the day.  The pain lasts for a variable amount of time, from as short as a few seconds to as long as half an hour.  For individuals with this condition, it could happen for as many times as six episodes a year.  This condition is not limited to any specific age group, but studies show that attacks start at an average age of 45 years old.  Moreover, men seem to be less affected than women.

Causes of Proctalgia Fugax

The root cause of this condition is not known for sure.  This condition is a result of unrestrained tightening of the rectal and pelvic muscles, much like the cramping in the legs.  Though, sometimes, the pain is associated with a need to defecate and penile erection in males.  It is not a psychosomatic condition even though some patients testify that attacks are more frequent if they are stressed.  Nor is this condition a result of polyps, fissures and hemorrhoids and other rectal conditions.

Diagnosis of Proctalgia Fugax

Diagnosis of this condition is based on the symptoms the patient describes.  The doctor may perform colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy to ascertain that there are no other problems in the rectal area.  Aside from this, there are no other tests or procedures in diagnosing Proctalgia Fugax.  In rare cases when an attack happens under the observation of a doctor, there are no consistent irregularities found.

Remedy for Proctalgia Fugax

This condition has no cure, although, the pain could somewhat be remedied using various methods.  One may soak in warm bath to relieve the pain.  However this may not be much useful considering the attack could have ended even before the bath is prepared.  Warm enemas, relaxation techniques and massaging the anus could help.  Also effective is stretching the rectal area by touching the toes or applying pressure to the anus.  Pain relievers like ibuprofen and paracetamol may also be taken.  For those who experience recurring, excruciating and long episodes of Proctalgia Fugax, inhaling salbutamol is effective.  Antispasmodics and sedatives may likewise relieve pain.

Prevention of Proctalgia Fugax

This condition has no definite cause, cure nor prevention.  Taking in foods high in fiber and plenty of liquids might prevent the onset of Proctalgia Fugax since these make the stools soft thus preventing spasms.  Adding fiber supplements to the diet is also recommended.  Other than the aforementioned, there are no other sure methods to prevent this condition’s occurrence.  The wisest course of action is to have yourself checked to rule out serious problems.

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