Intimate health is a topic that men are often reluctant to talk about. Shame and embarrassment are the most common reasons for avoiding visits to specialists, especially proctologists. Meanwhile, regular check-ups and a quick response to alarming symptoms are the key to health and well-being. In this article, you will learn when a man should go to a proctologist and how to overcome the shame before the visit.
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Who is a proctologist and what does he do?
A proctologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the final section of the digestive system, including the anus, anal canal and rectum. Contrary to appearances, a proctologist does not only deal with “embarrassing” ailments. Its scope of competence is wide and includes, m.in:
- Haemorrhoids: are dilated venous vessels in the anal area, manifested by pain, itching, bleeding.
- Anal fissure: a painful rupture of the anal mucosa, often caused by constipation.
- Perianal fistula: inflammation in which an abnormal connection is formed between the rectum and the skin around the anus.
- Colorectal cancers: early detection is crucial for successful treatment.
- Fecal incontinence: a problem with controlling bowel movements, which can have various causes.
- Constipation and diarrhea: Bowel movement disorders that can signal health problems.
Alarming signals – symptoms that should prompt a visit
Many proctological diseases develop slowly and initially do not give clear symptoms. That is why prevention and regular examinations are so important. However, there are signals that absolutely must not be ignored. You should consider visiting a proctologist if you notice:
- Anal bleeding: can be a symptom of hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or even cancer.
- Pain in the anal area: may indicate an anal fissure, hemorrhoids, abscess, or other medical conditions.
- Anal itching: A common symptom of hemorrhoids, fungal or parasitic infections.
- Change in bowel movements: constipation, diarrhea, or a feeling of incomplete bowel movement can signal bowel problems.
- Mucus or pus leaking from the anus: This may indicate inflammation or fistula.
- Nodules or lesions in the anal area: these can be a symptom of hemorrhoids, genital warts or other conditions.
Remember that early detection of the disease increases the chances of effective treatment and quick recovery. Do not ignore the alarming symptoms and make an appointment with a proctologist.
Prevention – when to go for a check-up?
Even if you do not feel any discomfort, it is worth visiting a proctologist regularly as a preventive measure. Specialists recommend that the first proctological examination should be performed after the age of 40, and then repeated every 2-3 years. People in the risk group, e.g. with a family history of proctological diseases, should start the tests earlier and perform them more often.
How to prepare for a visit to a proctologist?
Many men feel stressed and embarrassed before visiting a proctologist. Remember, however, that for a doctor, proctological examination is a routine procedure. To minimize discomfort and facilitate the examination, it is worth preparing for it properly:
- Hygiene: wash the anal area thoroughly before the visit.
- Diet: on the day before the test, avoid hard-to-digest foods and products that cause flatulence.
- Medications: tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking.
- Rectal infusion: Your doctor may recommend a rectal infusion to cleanse your colon.
During the visit, the doctor will interview you and then perform a rectal examination, i.e. a finger examination through the anus. If necessary, he or she may order additional tests, e.g. anoscopy, rectoscopy or colonoscopy.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help!
Health is the most important thing, so do not delay a visit to a proctologist if you notice worrying symptoms. Remember that the earlier you start treatment, the better your chances of full recovery. A proctologist is a doctor like any other, and his goal is to help the patient. Don’t be shy to ask questions and talk about your ailments.
