You can see a colon specialist in Singapore for a variety of conditions, including colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis), diverticulitis, hemorrhoids, and anal fissures. They also perform colonoscopies and other diagnostic procedures to screen for colon cancer and other diseases.
For referrals, you may be referred to a colon specialist if you experience symptoms like abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, or unexplained weight loss. Also, you can benefit from regular screenings with a colon specialist if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or other colorectal conditions.
This article explores the possible reasons for anus pain. It also clarifies which doctor to consult for anus pain.
So, which Doctor is best for Anus Pain?
Anus pain can be quite uncomfortable to live with. That said, it is not strange that many people frequently ask; which doctor should I consult for anus pain?
A colon specialist is a top choice for anus pain. These doctors specialize in the gastrointestinal tract and handle issues from the anus to the colon. For anus pain, colon specialists offer expertise and comprehensive care.
What Causes Pain in the Anus?
On your own, it isn’t easy to tell what causes your anus pain. So you will want to consult a professional like a colon specialist in Singapore for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. If you have been experiencing anus pain, here are some of the potential causes;
- Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids are also known as piles. They’re swollen and inflamed veins in the anus and lower rectum which can cause pain, itching, and bleeding, especially during bowel movements. Hemorrhoids can develop due to increased pressure in the lower rectum.
- Anal Fissure: An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus. This tear can cause sharp pain and bleeding during bowel movements. Fissures can result from passing hard or large stools, chronic diarrhea, or inflammation in the anal area. Treatment usually involves keeping the stool soft and promoting healing of the fissure with topical medications or, in some cases, surgery.
- Anal Fistula: An anal fistula is an abnormal channel that forms between the anus or rectum and the skin around the anus. It can cause pain, swelling, and discharge of pus. Fistulas often result from an untreated anal abscess, which is a collection of pus in the anal area.
- Anal or Rectal Stricture: An anal or rectal stricture is a narrowing of the anal or rectal canal, which can cause pain and difficulty passing stool. Strictures can be caused by scarring from previous surgeries, severe inflammation, or conditions such as Crohn’s disease or cancer.
- Anal Cancer: Anal cancer is a rare but serious condition that can cause pain in the anus. It often presents with symptoms such as bleeding, itching, or discharge from the anus. Risk factors include infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), anal intercourse, and smoking.
- Ulcerative Proctitis: Ulcerative proctitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the rectum. It can cause pain, bleeding, and diarrhea. The exact cause of ulcerative proctitis is unknown. However, it is thought to be related to an abnormal immune response.
- Other Causes: Other less common causes of anal pain include sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as herpes or gonorrhea, and conditions like proctalgia fugax, a fleeting pain in the anus or lower rectum. These conditions require specific treatments based on the underlying cause.
What to Ask Your Colon Specialist about Anus Pain
When seeing a colon specialist for anus pain, it is also natural to wonder what to expect or what to ask them. It is simple;
When seeing a colon specialist for anus pain, expect a thorough examination of your medical history and symptoms. They may conduct a physical exam, possibly including a rectal exam. Also, diagnostic tests like a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy might be recommended to identify the cause of your anus pain. As for what to ask here are a few questions that may help;
I. What are the treatment options for my condition?
Treatment for anus pain depends on the underlying cause. If your anus pain is due to hemorrhoids, for example, your colon specialist in Singapore may recommend over-the-counter creams or ointments, stool softeners, and warm baths to manage symptoms.
In more severe cases, procedures like rubber band ligation or surgical removal may be necessary. Anal fissures often heal on their own. However, they may require dietary changes, fiber supplements, or prescription medications to promote healing and reduce pain.
Inflammatory bowel disease is typically managed with medications to reduce inflammation and control symptoms. If the pain is due to colorectal cancer, treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, depending on the stage of the cancer.
II. What should I do to manage my symptoms at home?
Home management strategies can also help alleviate anus pain and discomfort. But, you will need to get it right to avoid worsening your condition or the symptoms themselves.
For hemorrhoids, you will want to practice good hygiene, use soft, non-irritating toilet paper, and also avoid straining during bowel movements. Warm baths, known as sitz baths, can also provide relief for both hemorrhoids and anal fissures.
Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may also be prescribed to help with the pain and inflammation. Also, eat a high-fiber diet and stay hydrated to prevent constipation which can worsen symptoms.
III. Are there any warning signs or red flags I should watch out for?
Now, anus pain is often due to benign causes like hemorrhoids or fissures. However, there are certain symptoms that warrant immediate medical attention.
These include severe pain, especially if it persists or worsens despite home remedies, rectal bleeding, which may be bright red or maroon in color, changes in bowel habits, for example, persistent diarrhea or constipation, and unexplained weight loss. These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying condition, such as colorectal cancer.
IV. What can I do to prevent recurrence of my condition?
Preventing recurrence of anus pain depends on the underlying cause. For hemorrhoids, maintaining good bowel habits which includes avoiding straining during bowel movements and not delaying the urge to have a bowel movement can help prevent recurrence.
Eating a high-fiber diet and staying hydrated can also help prevent constipation, which is a common trigger for hemorrhoids and anal fissures. For those with inflammatory bowel disease, adhering to prescribed medications and lifestyle modifications recommended by your colon specialist in Singapore can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of flare-ups.
V. How frequently should I follow up with you?
The frequency of follow-up visits will depend on the severity and underlying cause of your anus pain. Your colon specialist in Singapore will discuss an appropriate follow-up schedule based on your individual needs. Please attend all scheduled follow-up appointments and to communicate any changes in your symptoms or concerns with your provider.
Closing Thoughts
A colon specialist in Singapore is the right doctor to see for anus pain. They cannot only thoroughly assess your situation but also tailor treatments depending on your situation. If you’re looking for a colon specialist in Singapore, we recommend you visit the Gastrohealth Center for Digestive and Liver Care. Details below;
Gastrohealth Center for Digestive and Liver Care
6A Napier Road,
Annexe Block #05-35C Gleneagles Hospital
Singapore 258500
820 Thomson Road,
#06-07 Mount Alvernia Medical Centre A Singapore 574623
+65 6355 5773
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