What is included in the initial appointment
The doctor asks in detail about complaints, the nature of stool and the duration of symptoms, then conducts an examination in a comfortable position with an anesthetic gel. A digital examination assesses the tone of the sphincter and the condition of the walls of the rectum; anoscopy allows you to see the anal canal from the inside - hemorrhoids, fissures and polyps are located there. Based on the results of the appointment, the doctor makes a diagnosis, prescribes treatment or additional tests.
Why is it better to visit a proctologist earlier?
Proctological diseases are one of those that people drag out for years due to embarrassment. Meanwhile, it is here that the early stage is treated on an outpatient basis in one visit, while the advanced stage requires surgery and hospitalization.
It is especially important that blood in the stool, changes in the shape of stool and a feeling of incomplete emptying can be symptoms not only of hemorrhoids, but also of a colon tumor. Writing them off as “hemorrhoids” without examining them is the most common and most dangerous mistake.
When to contact
- blood on paper or in stool
- pain during bowel movements, foreign body sensation
- loss of nodes, itching and burning in the anus
- discharge of mucus or pus, fistula
- constipation or diarrhea lasting more than 2–3 weeks
How is the inspection carried out?
The examination is carried out in a comfortable position, with anesthetic gel and takes a few minutes. Anoscopy allows you to see the anal canal and the lower ampullary part of the rectum - this is where hemorrhoids, fissures and polyps are located. If necessary, the doctor prescribes sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy.