Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.
Proctalgia fugax is a sharp muscle cramp in the rectum or anus that comes on suddenly and may last a few seconds to a few minutes. Though painful, it is not dangerous, and it does not indicate infection or cancer-just a brief spasm of the pelvic muscles.
Dr. Chadha reviews your pain patterns, bowel habits, stress levels, sleeping position and any prior anorectal issues to pinpoint triggers.
A gentle rectal and pelvic exam assesses muscle tone, detects nerve irritation and rules out lumps, swelling or signs of other anorectal conditions.
Most diagnoses are made quickly in-office. Knowing there's no serious disease often brings immediate relief.
Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.
It's a brief muscle spasm in the rectum or anus that comes on suddenly and usually resolves on its own.
Stress or tension in pelvic muscles, irregular bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea), nerve irritation, prior anorectal injury or surgery, and long periods of sitting or poor posture.
No. Proctalgia fugax does not cause bleeding or tumors. If you notice any rectal bleeding, consult your doctor right away.
Episodes typically last anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes.
Warm baths, pelvic-floor stretches, and muscle relaxants (topical or oral) can offer fast relief.
Dr. Chadha reviews your medical history, performs a gentle rectal exam, and orders imaging or endoscopy only if needed to rule out other issues.
Take warm baths, do light pelvic-floor exercises, eat more fiber, stay hydrated, and practice stress-relief techniques like deep breathing or yoga.
Topical muscle-relaxing creams, oral muscle relaxants for frequent attacks, and over-the-counter pain relievers as needed.
Surgical options are rare. Chronic cases may benefit from Botox injections or biofeedback therapy to ease pelvic muscle strain.
If your pain occurs frequently, interferes with sleep or daily life, or if you experience any rectal bleeding'schedule an evaluation with Dr. Rishi Chadha.
