Fact 2: Primary Causes
Diving into what triggers proctitis brings us to a gamut of causes. First and foremost are infections, especially sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Organisms causing chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and herpes can lead to inflammation of the rectum. Safe sexual practices can drastically reduce the risk of such infections.
Inflammatory bowel diseases, like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, also top the list. These conditions are autoimmune in nature, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its tissues. This leads to prolonged inflammation, which can manifest as proctitis in some individuals.
Radiation therapy, especially when administered for rectal or prostate cancers, can sometimes inflame the rectum. While this therapy is instrumental in treating cancers, its side effects can sometimes lead to conditions like proctitis. Proper post-therapy care and monitoring are crucial.
Certain medications can also induce proctitis. Prolonged usage of some antibiotics or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) might irritate the rectum. It’s always essential to be vigilant about the side effects of medications and to consult with healthcare professionals about any concerns. (2)
