What are the common symptoms of hemorrhoids. How are hemorrhoids diagnosed. When should you see a doctor for hemorrhoid treatment. What are the different types of hemorrhoids and their complications. How can you manage hemorrhoid symptoms at home. What medical treatments are available for hemorrhoids. Who should you consult for hemorrhoid care.

Understanding Hemorrhoids: Types and Symptoms

Hemorrhoids are a common condition affecting many adults, particularly those between 45 and 75 years old. These swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus can cause discomfort and concern for those experiencing them. To better understand this condition, it’s crucial to explore the different types of hemorrhoids and their associated symptoms.

External vs. Internal Hemorrhoids

There are two main types of hemorrhoids:

• External hemorrhoids: These develop under the skin around the anus.
• Internal hemorrhoids: These form in the lining of the lower rectum and anus.

Dr. Cuckoo Choudhary, associate professor of gastroenterology at Thomas Jefferson University, explains that neither type is inherently worse than the other. The severity depends on the size and degree of the hemorrhoid. Untreated internal hemorrhoids can lead to bleeding, while external hemorrhoids may cause thrombosis (blood clotting), resulting in severe pain from hemorrhoidal strangulation.

Common Hemorrhoid Symptoms

Recognizing the symptoms of hemorrhoids is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Some common signs include:

• Mild itching or pain in the anal area
• Bleeding during bowel movements
• A feeling of fullness or a lump in the anus
• Discomfort or pain while sitting
• Swelling around the anus

Is rectal bleeding always a sign of hemorrhoids? While bleeding can be a symptom of hemorrhoids, it’s essential to consult a doctor to rule out other potential causes, such as colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Hemorrhoids

While many cases of hemorrhoids can be managed at home with over-the-counter treatments, there are instances when professional medical care is necessary. Understanding when to see a doctor is crucial for proper treatment and to rule out more serious conditions.

Key Indicators for Seeking Medical Help

Dr. Aline J. Charabaty-Pishvaian, associate professor of medicine and director of the center for inflammatory bowel disease at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, advises seeking medical attention in the following situations:

1. Any instance of rectal bleeding
2. Feeling a lump in the anus
3. Experiencing rectal pain
4. Persistent symptoms despite home treatment
5. Passing maroon or tarry-colored stools

Should you seek emergency care for hemorrhoid symptoms? If you experience a large amount of rectal bleeding accompanied by dizziness or faintness, it’s crucial to seek immediate emergency medical care.

Diagnosing Hemorrhoids: What to Expect

When you visit a doctor for hemorrhoid concerns, they will typically perform a physical examination and may use various diagnostic tools to assess your condition accurately.

Physical Examination

The doctor will likely begin with a visual inspection of the anal area to check for external hemorrhoids. They may also perform a digital rectal exam, inserting a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel for abnormalities.

Additional Diagnostic Procedures

Depending on your symptoms and medical history, the doctor may recommend additional tests such as:

• Anoscopy: A hollow, lighted tube is used to view the anal canal and lower rectum.
• Sigmoidoscopy: A flexible, lighted tube is inserted into the rectum to examine the lower part of the colon.
• Colonoscopy: A longer, flexible tube is used to examine the entire colon, particularly if there are concerns about other digestive issues.

How accurate are these diagnostic procedures for identifying hemorrhoids? While these methods are generally very effective, the accuracy can vary depending on the individual case and the skill of the healthcare provider.

Home Remedies and Lifestyle Changes for Hemorrhoid Relief

Many people find relief from hemorrhoid symptoms through simple home remedies and lifestyle modifications. These approaches can often be effective for mild to moderate cases of hemorrhoids.

Dietary Changes

Increasing fiber intake and staying hydrated can help soften stools and reduce straining during bowel movements. Some beneficial dietary changes include:

• Eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Drinking plenty of water throughout the day
• Considering fiber supplements if dietary changes alone aren’t sufficient

Topical Treatments

Over-the-counter creams, ointments, and suppositories can provide relief from hemorrhoid symptoms. These may include:

• Witch hazel pads for soothing relief
• Hydrocortisone creams to reduce inflammation and itching
• Analgesic ointments for pain relief

Lifestyle Modifications

Simple changes in daily habits can help manage hemorrhoid symptoms and prevent their recurrence:

• Avoiding prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet
• Practicing good hygiene, including gentle cleaning with unscented wipes or water
• Using a sitz bath for 10-15 minutes, two to three times daily
• Exercising regularly to promote better bowel function

Can lifestyle changes alone cure hemorrhoids? While these modifications can significantly improve symptoms and prevent flare-ups, some cases may still require medical intervention for complete resolution.

Medical Treatments for Hemorrhoids

When home remedies and lifestyle changes aren’t sufficient to manage hemorrhoid symptoms, various medical treatments are available. These range from minimally invasive procedures to surgical options for more severe cases.

Non-Surgical Procedures

Several in-office procedures can be performed without the need for surgery:

• Rubber band ligation: A small elastic band is placed around the base of an internal hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply.
• Sclerotherapy: A chemical solution is injected into the hemorrhoid to shrink it.
• Infrared coagulation: Infrared light is used to create scar tissue, cutting off the blood supply to the hemorrhoid.

Surgical Options

For more severe or persistent cases, surgical intervention may be necessary:

• Hemorrhoidectomy: Surgical removal of large external hemorrhoids or prolapsed internal hemorrhoids.
• Stapled hemorrhoidopexy: A procedure that uses a stapling device to reposition prolapsed hemorrhoids and cut off their blood supply.
• Doppler-guided hemorrhoid artery ligation: Uses ultrasound to locate and tie off the arteries supplying blood to the hemorrhoids.

How effective are these medical treatments for hemorrhoids? The success rate of these procedures is generally high, with many patients experiencing significant relief. However, the effectiveness can vary depending on the individual case and the specific treatment chosen.

Preventing Hemorrhoid Recurrence

After successful treatment of hemorrhoids, taking steps to prevent their recurrence is crucial. Many of the same lifestyle changes that help manage symptoms can also reduce the risk of future hemorrhoid development.

Dietary Considerations

Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fiber and staying well-hydrated can help prevent constipation and reduce strain during bowel movements. Consider the following dietary tips:

• Aim for 25-30 grams of fiber daily from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day
• Limit consumption of processed foods and those low in fiber

Bathroom Habits

Proper bathroom habits can significantly reduce the risk of hemorrhoid development:

• Avoid straining during bowel movements
• Don’t sit on the toilet for extended periods
• Respond promptly to the urge to have a bowel movement

Exercise and Weight Management

Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent hemorrhoids by improving overall digestive health and reducing pressure on the veins in the rectal area.

How often should you have bowel movements to prevent hemorrhoids? While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, having regular, easy-to-pass bowel movements is key. This could mean daily for some people, while others may have healthy bowel habits with less frequency.

Choosing the Right Healthcare Provider for Hemorrhoid Treatment

When seeking medical attention for hemorrhoids, it’s important to choose the right healthcare provider. While many cases can be managed by a general practitioner or family physician, some situations may require the expertise of a specialist.

Primary Care Physicians

For most cases of hemorrhoids, your primary care doctor or general practitioner can provide initial evaluation and treatment. They can:

• Perform basic examinations
• Prescribe medications
• Recommend lifestyle changes
• Refer you to a specialist if necessary

Gastroenterologists

Gastroenterologists specialize in digestive health and can offer more advanced diagnostic and treatment options for hemorrhoids. They may be consulted for:

• Complex cases
• Recurrent hemorrhoids
• Cases requiring endoscopic procedures

Colorectal Surgeons

Also known as proctologists, these specialists focus on disorders of the colon, rectum, and anus. They are typically consulted for:

• Severe or chronic hemorrhoids
• Cases requiring surgical intervention
• Complications from previous treatments

When should you see a specialist instead of a general practitioner for hemorrhoids? If your symptoms are severe, persistent, or don’t respond to initial treatments, your primary care doctor may refer you to a gastroenterologist or colorectal surgeon for specialized care.

Understanding hemorrhoids and knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial for effective management and treatment. While many cases can be handled with home remedies and lifestyle changes, it’s important not to ignore persistent or severe symptoms. By working with the right healthcare provider and following appropriate treatment plans, most people can find relief from hemorrhoid discomfort and prevent future occurrences.

4 Signs Your Hemorrhoids Warrant a Doctor’s Visit

Hemorrhoids are fairly common, especially among people ages 45 to 75. And most hemorrhoid symptoms, such as mild itching or mild pain, can usually be treated at home with over-the-counter remedies.

But there are times when a trip to the doctor is warranted — and many people do seek medical help, whether for more specific medication or, in some cases, simple hemorrhoid surgery. According to the latest statistics for digestive diseases from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), 1.1 million people received outpatient care for hemorrhoids in 2009, and 266,000 people were hospitalized for treatment in 2010. While severe complications of hemorrhoids are quite rare, it’s important to know when to see your doctor.

“Anytime you have bleeding, feel a lump in the anus, or have rectal pain, you should see a doctor to make sure you don’t have a more serious cause of the symptoms,” says Aline J. Charabaty-Pishvaian, MD, associate professor of medicine and director of the center for inflammatory bowel disease at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, DC.

Even a less serious situation can prompt a call to your doctor. If you’ve been trying to treat hemorrhoids on your own, for instance, yet the hemorrhoid symptoms linger, a doctor visit makes sense.

“If you have already been diagnosed with hemorrhoids and your symptoms are not improving with fiber supplements, an increase in water intake, over-the-counter pain relievers, or a warm bath, then schedule an appointment,” Dr. Charabaty-Pishvaian says.

In most cases, you can see a general practitioner or your family physician about your hemorrhoid symptoms. If complications arise, you may be referred to a specialist, such as a gastroenterologist or a proctologist.

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Different Types of Hemorrhoids

There are two types of hemorrhoids: external and internal. External hemorrhoids arise from the anal canal, while internal hemorrhoids arise from the rectum, immediately above the anal canal. According to Cuckoo Choudhary, MD, associate professor of gastroenterology at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, one type is not worse than the other, but both can cause problems. “It all depends on the size and degree of the hemorrhoid,” Dr. Choudhary says. “Untreated internal hemorrhoids can cause bleeding. External hemorrhoids can cause thrombosis [blood clotting], which gives way to severe pain from hemorrhoidal strangulation.”

If you know you have hemorrhoids and you have acute and severe anal pain, it could be a sign of thrombosed hemorrhoids.

Know When to See Your Doctor

Though the annoyance of hemorrhoids can be reason enough to call your doctor, use this checklist to know when a visit is a must:

• If you’re experiencing any type of rectal bleeding
• If the hemorrhoids are causing you pain or discomfort
• If the problems persist despite trying over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams or other remedies
• If you’re passing stools that look maroon in color or tarry in color, a sign of bleeding

If you experience a large amount of rectal bleeding that is accompanied by dizziness or faintness, be sure to seek emergency medical care immediately.

Though hemorrhoids are thought of as a minor health problem, you shouldn’t let that notion keep you from getting them examined. The ultimate goal is hemorrhoid relief, and for many people, that means an office visit.

Read more: Hemorrhoids: What to Know

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Hemorrhoid Symptoms and Diagnosis: Internal and External Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids occur when veins in the skin around the anus or in the lower rectum get swollen and inflamed. It’s not exactly clear what causes people to get hemorrhoids, but there are some common, accepted risk factors and conditions that lead to their development.

Aging can decrease muscle tone in the area, weakening the tissue and causing hemorrhoids to bulge, while obesity and pregnancy can increase the risk for hemorrhoids due to increased pressure on tissue in the area. (1)

Repeated straining to make a bowel movement, as well as constipation, are also associated with hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoids are generally not dangerous or life-threatening, but they may be painful.

Common Hemorrhoid Symptoms to Watch For

The following signs and symptoms may indicate hemorrhoids:

• Bright red blood on toilet paper, in stool, or in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement
• Anal itching
• Pain around the anus, especially while sitting
• Pain during bowel movements
• One or more hard, painful lumps around the anus

If you have any symptoms of hemorrhoids, try to avoid excessive straining, rubbing, or cleaning around the anus.

Doing these things can make any irritation and itching worse, and can sometimes lead to bleeding.

Internal Hemorrhoids vs. External Hemorrhoids

There are two main types of hemorrhoids:

Internal Hemorrhoids These hemorrhoids develop inside the lower rectum. Internal hemorrhoids usually don’t hurt, but they often bleed painlessly, resulting in bright red blood you might notice when you go to the bathroom and wipe.

Most of the time, internal hemorrhoids are not visible to the naked eye. But in some cases, internal hemorrhoids may protrude through the anus, which is known as becoming prolapsed. When this happens, they will usually shrink back inside the rectum on their own. Protruding hemorrhoids can become irritated and itchy, and patients may find it difficult to clean themselves after a bowel movement.

Internal hemorrhoids are categorized by how prolapsed they are, which helps determine how they should be treated.

Grade 1 hemorrhoids means there is no prolapse. A prolapse that goes back in by itself is categorized as grade 2. Prolapse that needs to be pushed back in by the patient is considered grade 3. Grade 4 is when the prolapse can’t be pushed back in. (2)

External Hemorrhoids These hemorrhoids develop under the skin around the outside of the anus. They can be itchy or painful, and may feel lumpy.

External hemorrhoids are called thrombosed hemorrhoids when a blood clot develops within the hemorrhoid. The increased pressure can be very painful, especially within the first 48 hours after it develops. (1)

Thrombosed hemorrhoids tend to be bluish in color due to the clot. Sometimes the blood clot will go away on its own, but because the clot has stretched the skin, it may result in an anal skin tag — excess skin left when the blood clot in a thrombosed hemorrhoid is absorbed by the body. Skin tags do not require removal, but if it’s particularly bothersome to a patient, excision is an option. (1)

If a thrombosed hemorrhoid has been present for longer than two days, the pain has often peaked and you might try home treatments while waiting for the clot to clear up on its own. When the clot first forms, it can be very painful; if you make it to your doctor’s office during this time, an in-office surgical procedure, involving local anesthesia and excision of the hemorrhoidal tissue, may be available. (2)

RELATED: 8 Myths You’ve Been Told About Hemorrhoids

How Hemorrhoids Are Diagnosed by Your Doctor

See your doctor if you think you might have hemorrhoids, especially if you notice bleeding from your anus or rectum, or have bloody stools. Your doctor will want to rule out more serious problems that can cause bleeding from the anus or rectum, such as cancer.

Hemorrhoid symptoms may also be similar to those of other anal and rectal problems, including anal fissures, abscesses, warts, and polyps.

Your doctor will ask about your medical history and will ask you to describe your symptoms. Questions about your eating habits, toilet habits, and enema and laxative use are likely to come up. (3)

Your doctor will also perform a physical exam to look for lumps or swelling, prolapsed internal hemorrhoids, external hemorrhoids, skin irritation, skin tags, and anal fissures, which are small tears in the anus that can result in itching and bleeding. (3) This will involve a visual examination of the area.

Your doctor may also perform a rectal exam to diagnose internal hemorrhoids, check the muscle tone of your anus, and check for blood in the stool. This is done with a gloved, lubricated finger (called a digital rectal examination) and a tool called an anoscope.

An anoscope is a type of endoscope — a hollow, lighted tube that is inserted a few inches into the anus to help the doctor see any problems inside the lining of the rectum. This procedure is performed in the doctor’s office and doesn’t require anesthesia. (3)

Your doctor may also recommend additional tests to rule out other causes of bleeding, especially if you are over age 40.

These tests may include:

Colonoscopy After you’re sedated with medicine, your doctor uses a thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope to look at the inner lining of your colon.

A colonoscopy can help discover ulcers, polyps, tumors, and other areas of inflammation or bleeding.

Sigmoidoscopy This procedure is similar to a colonoscopy, but it uses a shorter tube called a sigmoidoscope to examine the lining of the rectum and the sigmoid colon (the lower part of the colon).

Barium Enema X-ray This is a special type of X-ray of the colon and rectum in which your doctor inserts a liquid solution containing barium sulfate into the rectum. The solution helps highlight specific areas in the colon for your doctor to examine in the X-ray images.

RELATED: 4 Signs Your Hemorrhoids Warrant a Doctor’s Visit

Additional reporting by Deborah Shapiro.

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What does a proctologist treat and how to prepare for an examination? Indications for visiting a doctor at the MEDSI Clinic

A proctologist is a specialist who treats diseases of the rectum, large intestine and anus. You should contact this doctor immediately after the first signs of the disease are detected. MEDSI clinics employ experienced specialists who provide support to patients with a variety of proctological problems.

Proctologist specialization

A proctologist treats infectious, parasitic, congenital, inflammatory and oncological diseases of the intestine, colon and surrounding tissues. The specialist examines patients and collects anamnesis. You can also get medical advice from a professional.

Doctors have a therapeutic or surgical profile. Doctors of the first type carry out only conservative therapy, the second – surgical interventions.

What diseases does the doctor treat in women?

A proctologist treats:

• Hemorrhoids. This disease occurs due to varicose veins in the rectum and leads to the development of hemorrhoids that protrude from the anus, causing discomfort, bleeding and pain
• Anal fissures. This pathology occurs as a result of damage to the walls of the rectum
• Polyps in the colon. This pathology belongs to the category of benign formations and is hereditary in nature
• Paraproctitis. These diseases lead to inflammation of the perirectal tissues and the formation of fistulas
• Worm infestations
• Cancers

Women should consult a doctor when the first signs of any of the listed pathologies are detected.

These include:

• Constipation or fecal incontinence
• Pain in the anus
• Anal bleeding
• Discharge from anus mucus and pus
• Bloating

What diseases does it treat in men?

In men, proctologists treat the same diseases as in women.

You should consult a specialist for hemorrhoids, anal fissures, polyps, proctitis and paraproctitis. It is important to understand that only with timely diagnosis, diagnosis and treatment, one can count on the rapid elimination of not only the symptoms of diseases, but also their causes. Turning to a doctor in the early stages of the development of pathology, the patient receives adequate conservative therapy, which avoids the need for surgical intervention.

How to prepare for the examination?

Preparing for a proctologist examination is quite simple. You don’t have to go on a special diet or do cleansing enemas.

Follow these guidelines:

• It is recommended to have a bowel movement before going to the doctor. If necessary, you can take a laxative. This will allow the specialist to make a preliminary diagnosis
• One day before the appointment with the proctologist, you should exclude from the diet products that stimulate increased gas formation
• Immediately before going to the doctor, perform standard hygiene procedures (washing with soap)
• Try to calm down and not worry. There is nothing terrible and shameful in the examination by a proctologist. Doctor doing his job

How is the inspection?

An examination by a proctologist takes place in several stages:

• History taking and listening to patient complaints
• Primary examination. It is carried out by palpation. The organs are palpated by the doctor through the abdominal wall and through the anus. Such an examination allows you to assess the condition of the anal canal and closely located parts of the intestine. Diagnosis by palpation makes it possible to detect pathological formations and damage to the walls
• Anoscopy. To conduct this examination, an anoscope is used – a special device in the form of a hollow tube with a light tip and an adapter, which allows you to perform a visual examination of the walls of the rectum. For diagnosis, the patient lies on his side and pulls his legs to his stomach. The device is inserted into the anus and allows the doctor to see all the changes. In addition, during anoscopy, biopsy material is taken
• Sigmoidoscopy. This examination is carried out using a sigmoidoscope. Diagnosis is aimed at assessing the rectum and sigmoid colon, as well as the condition of the mucous membranes at a depth of up to 40 cm. The sigmoidoscope is a fiber optic tube with a lighting device. For diagnosis, the patient is asked to kneel and elbows. This ensures that the tool penetrates to the desired depth
• Colonoscopy. Such an examination belongs to the category of endoscopic and is one of the most informative. With such a diagnosis, tumors, ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease can be detected. The procedure can be not only diagnostic, but also therapeutic. Colonoscopy is also prescribed to stop bleeding, remove small benign tumors and remove foreign bodies from the rectum. Colonoscopy can be performed under anesthesia
• Laboratory studies. Patients often donate blood and feces

If dangerous pathologies are suspected, the following is additionally prescribed:

• Computed tomography
• Intestinal ozonation
• ultrasound
• Colon hydrotherapy

Proctologist examination of children

If your child complains of pain during bowel movements, experiences other problems of a proctological nature, you should immediately register him with a doctor. As a rule, the diagnosis of diseases in children is carried out using the palpation technique. Instrumental methods are not used because of the too small size of the rectum. Additionally, the doctor prescribes ultrasound, CT and other examinations that are non-invasive.

Who treats colitis – proctologist or gastroenterologist?

Proctologists are involved in the treatment of colitis, as well as other diseases of the lower digestive tract. They carry out both an initial examination and consultations, as well as a complete diagnosis, and further therapy. If necessary, an additional examination by a gastroenterologist is prescribed. If the situation is complex and confusing, doctors consult and decide on the treatment of pathology together.

Benefits of visiting a proctologist at MEDSI

• Use of the latest European diagnostic and treatment protocols
• Minimization of psychological uncertainty, feelings of fear and anxiety in patients
• Experienced doctors with many years of experience. Our proctologists in Moscow regularly improve their skills, undergo internships in the world’s leading clinics
• Using a range of modern diagnostic methods: laboratory tests, endoscopy of the anal canal and rectum. MRI of the pelvic and abdominal organs
• The use of minimally invasive endoscopic and surgical intervention techniques for the treatment of diseases of the large intestine, anal canal and perineum: sclerotherapy, infrared photocoagulation, node removal, laser operations
• Lack of queues and the possibility of making an appointment with a doctor at a convenient time

To make an appointment with a proctologist, just call: +7 ((495) 152-47-53.

Do not delay treatment, contact a doctor right now:

• Proctologist appointment

If you have hemorrhoids which doctor will help you?

/ Home / Articles / First aid for hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are a fairly common disease among adult men and women, especially sedentary work contributes to it. The problem is so delicate that many are embarrassed to go to the clinic with it, to find out which doctor you need to book a consultation with. However, this is wrong behavior: if hemorrhoids are not treated, they become chronic. The exacerbation of the disease is caused by the transfer of heavy objects, the period of pregnancy, and malnutrition. If you do not treat hemorrhoids, then you will have to eliminate the problem with the help of surgical operations. Therefore, we recommend that at the initial manifestations of hemorrhoids, contact a specialist – a proctologist or coloproctologist.

Which doctor treats hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids is a pathology of the lowest part of digestion – the rectum. Proctologists are engaged in the diagnosis and treatment of this part of the body. According to the modern classification of specialties – coloproctologist. These specialists deal with all problems that are associated with the colon, anus and perineum. Hemorrhoids are diagnosed by an increase in nodes, they will be detected by a gynecologist who performs a routine examination of women and a urologist when examining men. Also, the young men can be informed about the first signs of the disease by a surgeon who examines them as part of a medical examination at the military registration and enlistment office. If symptoms are detected, then the patient is referred to a narrower specialist – a coloproctologist, they explain that a professional approach is important in treating the disease.

Most district-level hospitals have a proctologist on staff. If not, then you can make an appointment with a surgeon, since proctology is one of the areas of surgery, so such a doctor has a sufficient knowledge base and practice in this area. The surgeon in the district hospital (polyclinic) conducts an outpatient appointment free of charge. In addition, you can contact a private medical clinic, there are enough coloproctologists in such institutions. To get to a good specialist, you should ask if the clinic has a license, find out the doctor’s experience and category, read reviews about him. When making an appointment, it is necessary to clarify what is included in the examination, the doctor may additionally prescribe an instrumental examination (sigmoidoscopy, anoscopy), which are paid separately. It is important to clarify this not only in terms of finances, but also for proper preparation for the study.

In the case when there is bleeding from the anus, the pain is very strong, then you need to call an ambulance. Such a complication can be caused by infringement of the node or thrombosis. If medical care is not provided in time, this will lead to necrosis (tissue necrosis).

Proctologists and Coloproctologists

The exact name of medical specialties is approved by the List of the Ministry of Health. In state institutions, when applying for a job, they strictly monitor that the name of the specialty exactly matches the law. Previously, doctors who treated hemorrhoids were called “proctologists”. Since 2014 they have been referred to as “coloproctologists”. This is due to the fact that the field of study of pathology was slightly “expanded” – to the entire large intestine.

Depending on the place of work and the characteristics of the medical profile, coloproctologists can be:

1. Therapists. In this case, the coloproctologist is engaged in therapeutic (drug) treatment of the disease, as well as the treatment of Crohn’s disease, colitis, elimination of infections and parasites that have settled in the intestines.
2. Surgeons. Coloproctologists of this direction practice minimally invasive methods of treating hemorrhoids, and also perform operations to remove tumors, hemorrhoidal cones, polyps using special endoscopic devices.

A coloproctologist-therapist for the treatment of hemorrhoids prescribes medications, prescribes drugs for oral and topical use, paints a diet that must be followed. Doctors of this specialization usually work in polyclinics, conduct outpatient appointments.

A coloproctologist-surgeon is a doctor who is consulted in cases where treatment with various home methods has not yielded results, hemorrhoids have entered an advanced stage, complications have appeared (a crack in the intestinal wall), bleeding begins, prolapse or infringement of hemorrhoids occurs. All this requires surgical intervention.

Both types of coloproctologists have enough knowledge and experience to diagnose hemorrhoids, determine the stage of the disease, and choose an effective treatment method. At the appointment, the doctor finds out how long ago the signs of the disease appeared, what provoked it and led to an exacerbation. At the consultation, the specialist necessarily examines the anus, performs palpation of the lower rectum, performs anoscopy, sigmoidoscopy. If there is a need, then such studies as irrigoscopy or colonoscopy are additionally assigned.

Based on the study, complaints and analyzes, an individual treatment regimen for the patient is selected, taking into account the age and presence of other diseases. The therapeutic process and its effectiveness are monitored. For stages I-III of the disease, treatment is carried out with the help of minisurgery (sclerotherapy for external hemorrhoids, the imposition of latex rings, ligation of blood vessels). Also, laser irradiation, cryotherapy, thermal coagulation can be used for treatment. After the procedures, the proctologist must prescribe a therapy that will prevent the development of exacerbations and maintain a positive result of treatment. To do this, the doctor explains to the patient the features of nutrition, hygiene, regimen.

Duties of a coloproctologist

A coloproctologist-surgeon not only treats hemorrhoids, but deals with the elimination of intestinal pathologies due to injuries, congenital diseases.

The doctor provides emergency or planned care in the presence of:

• hemorrhoids with complications;
• rectal fissures;
• intestinal polyps;
• paraproctitis;
• cysts and tumors.

The task of the doctor is to choose an effective method of treatment, taking into account the results of the diagnosis and the general health of the patient. The choice of the method of surgical intervention is based on the ratio of the level of risk and the prediction of the development of the disease. The coloproctologist explains to the patient the methods of preparing for surgery, removes structures, eliminates cracks, and restores the functionality of the intestine. After the operation, a diet, dressings, local procedures, and medications are prescribed.

The duties of a doctor of this specialization, in addition to receiving patients, include maintaining documentation, analyzing the effectiveness of their work, and improving their qualifications every 5 years. During retraining courses, the doctor gains knowledge about new therapeutic achievements and drugs, the possibilities of innovative diagnostic equipment.

Preparation for inspection

It is better to plan a trip to the coloproctologist on your day off, because you need to carefully prepare for the examination. Before taking it is desirable to perform a bowel cleansing.

A day before visiting a doctor, you need to exclude from the diet food that provokes gas formation:

• milk;
• legumes;
• all types of cabbage;
• fatty fish and meat dishes;
• sweet products;
• sparkling water, strong coffee and tea;
• pickles;
• any alcohol, including beer.

You should refrain from smoking. The night before, you need to do 2 cleansing enemas, in the morning one more. If the classic version of the enema is poorly tolerated, then rectal suppositories based on glycerin, Microlax microclysters, are suitable. They provide bowel cleansing in 20 minutes. You should go to the doctor on an empty stomach in case he prescribes a blood test.

How painful is the examination?

The doctor performs an examination taking into account the patient’s condition, his excitement. Therefore, he talks to the patient and tries to conduct the examination slowly and carefully. The palpation procedure is quite unpleasant, but for the most part it does not cause pain. If there is a hemorrhoidal blackened node outside, then the examination is not performed, its removal is immediately assigned.

Why is it important to see a doctor?

Hemorrhoids is a disease that causes discomfort and complicates life and work of a person due to such signs:

• pain during defecation;
• bleeding;
• itching, erosion, irritation, weeping around the anus;
• sensation as if there is something foreign in the anal canal.