Proctology is a branch of medicine that deals with problems of the final part of the digestive system, which includes the rectum, anal canal and anus. Most of us consider a visit to a proctologist as something very embarrassing and avoid it for as long as possible, so that the problem can build up.

What exactly does a proctologist do?

The primary task of a proctologist is to diagnose diseases of the rectum and colon. In his work, the proctologist encounters many medical cases and collaborates with doctors from other specialities such as the urologist, who deals with genitourinary health, the gynaecologist or the gastroenterologist. The conditions treated by the proctologist are very diverse. He deals with problems of faecal incontinence as well as constipation. In addition, an important task is the diagnosis of tumours of the colon and rectum. The proctologist is also a specialist for rectal problems such as perianal fistulas or haemorrhoids. In addition to diagnosis, this doctor often performs surgical procedures himself, such as incision of a perianal abscess, or participates as a consultant. In cases where surgery is not necessary, the proctologist introduces appropriate treatment, e.g. for minor haemorrhoids or constipation.

A doctor in this specialisation can perform various types of examination. The basic one is the per rectum examination - which involves the doctor inserting his or her finger into the anus. He or she may also carry out more detailed tests such as anoscopic examination (using a speculum) or rectoscopy. These give a picture of the inside of the rectum and allow the exact cause of unpleasant symptoms (e.g. pain during bowel movements) to be identified. We can also visit the proctologist if we need to remove a foreign body from the anal area.

In addition to procedures strictly related to the area around the terminal ileum, the proctologist can also help in other typically surgical cases such as the removal of an ingrown nail or the removal of nodules from the breast area.

When should you go to a proctologist?

We should go to a proctologist if we observe worrying symptoms related to the ends of the large bowel:

- Anal pruritus - this is a very unpleasant ailment with which about 5% of the population suffers. The most important step is to determine the cause of the itching, for which the doctor will order all the necessary tests. Anal pruritus can have many sources, which is not easy to determine - it can be related to vitamin D and A deficiencies, for example, but sometimes it has a psychological basis.

- problematic constipation - constipation is a serious problem and treatment is needed. A high percentage of adults suffer from this condition. Again, it is important to find the cause of the problem and implement appropriate treatment.

- anal pain - when pain occurs in the anal area, it is important to see a specialist as soon as possible. It may be caused by more serious problems with the excretory system, such as Crohn's disease, prostatitis or appendicitis, or inflammation of the rectum or colon.

- rectal bleeding - when we observe blood in the stool we should immediately consult a doctor. Usually this symptom is associated with haemorrhoids, but it can also, for example, accompany colorectal cancer.

- the appearance of an abscess in the anal area - this is usually indicative of an infection and is very painful. It is usually treated by incision under local anaesthetic.