anal Sphincter
either of two circular muscles (internal and external) that open and close to control evacuation of feces (stool) through the anus
Anorectal
pertaining to the area of the rectum, the distal portion of the large intestine between the sigmoid colon and the anus, and the anus, the opening of the rectum on the body surface
Cathartic
an agent that causes emptying of the bowels, generally considered to be stronger than a laxative
Colon
the long central part of the large intestine, extending from the cecum to the rectum and comprised of the ascending colon, the transverse colon, the descending colon, and the sigmoid colon
Constipation
hardened stool that is difficult to eliminate and associated with infrequent bowel movements, discomfort, and excessive straining
Defecation
excretion (elimination) of solid waste
Descending Colon
the portion of the colon between the splenic flexure and the sigmoid colon
Distention
the state of being stretched out or enlarged
Enema
introduction of fluid into the rectum that promotes defecation by stretching bowel wall which stimulates peristalsis
Fecal Impaction
a collection of hardened feces (stool) in the rectum or sigmoid colon that cannot be expelled naturally
Feces
solid waste eliminated from the intestines through the anus; stool
Flatulence
excessive formation of gases in the stomach or intestine
Laxative
medication used to soften stool and to prevent or treat constipation by promoting defecation
Occult Blood
blood present in such small amounts as to be detectable only by specific diagnostic tests
REctal
pertaining to the rectum, the distal portion of the large intestine between the sigmoid colon and the anus
Sigmoid Fissure
a break, slit, or tear in soft tissue in the sigmoid colon, the portion of the large intestine between the descending colon and the rectum
Stool
solid waste eliminated from the intestines through the anus; fecal matter
Suppository
a solid, dissolvable cone-shaped medication preparation inserted into the rectum
