Description

What is Anus? The anus is the opening at the end of the digestive tract through which solid waste (feces) is eliminated from the body. It consists of two main components: the internal anal sphincter and the external anal sphincter. 1. Internal Anal Sphincter: The internal anal sphincter is an involuntary muscle that surrounds the upper part of the anus. It is made up of smooth muscle fibers and is controlled by the autonomic nervous system. The internal anal sphincter helps maintain continence by keeping the anus closed at rest and preventing involuntary passage of stool. 2. External Anal Sphincter: The external anal sphincter is a voluntary muscle that surrounds the lower part of the anus. It is composed of skeletal muscle fibers and is under conscious control. The external anal sphincter allows for voluntary control over bowel movements and plays a crucial role in maintaining continence. The functions of the anus include: 1. Defecation: The anus allows for the elimination of solid waste (feces) from the body during the process of defecation. When stool reaches the rectum, the muscles of the anus relax, and the internal and external sphincters open to allow the passage of feces out of the body. 2. Continence: The coordinated action of the internal and external anal sphincters helps maintain continence, which is the ability to control bowel movements. The internal sphincter remains contracted to keep the anus closed at rest, and the external sphincter can be voluntarily contracted or relaxed to initiate or withhold bowel movements. 3. Sensation: The anus contains sensory nerve endings that provide feedback about the presence of stool, pressure, and other sensations. These sensations help signal the need for bowel movements and provide information about the consistency and urgency of stool. Overall, the anatomy and function of the anus are essential for the control and elimination of feces from the body, as well as maintaining continence and providing sensory feedback. Common Diseases of Anus are : • Piles • Fistula in ANO • Fissure in ANO • Fecal Incontinence • Cancer of Anus

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