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Warning-sign checks

Rectal prolapse repair: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek emergency help for chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, fainting, heavy bleeding, or sudden severe abdominal pain.

    A prolapse that is trapped outside and becomes very painful, dark, or dusky also needs emergency assessment.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact your surgical team promptly for increasing pain, persistent vomiting, fever, worsening wound redness, pus, difficulty passing urine, or bleeding that is more than a small amount.

    Also call if you cannot pass stool or wind as expected, your abdomen is becoming more swollen, or the prolapse returns.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Mild soreness, small spots of blood, and temporary changes in bowel habits may occur during routine recovery.

    Follow the discharge instructions for what your facility expects after your specific operation.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Rectal prolapse repair. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.