10 Reasons to Visit a Proctologist in Los Angeles

As the age grows, health issues also start increasing. Things like weak eyesight, sore feet, knee pain, thinning hair, etc. readily come to mind. But who would have every given a thought to visiting a Proctologist every year? Before we can move ahead, let’s discuss who a proctologist is.

Who is a Proctologist?

A proctologist is a surgical specialist who focuses on the treatment of the colon, rectum, and anus diseases. Usually, people pay little attention to their colorectal health. However, with growing age, things like anal pain, hemorrhoids, constipation comes. Visiting a proctologist once in a year will help you minimize the risk of colorectal diseases.

What Will The Proctologist Do?

If you observe problems in your digestive tract, then you can try finding a reliable proctologist in the major cities like Los Angeles. If you are a female and would like to be comfortable while discussing your health condition, then you can find a female proctologist in Los Angeles. Once you visit physician’s office, you will be interviewed by the doctor in a confidential setting where he/she will examine you. Afterward, your proctologist will examine your anal area with a small scope (anoscope) and rectum with a proctoscope. Finally, the physician will check your stool for any microscopic blood.

Now that you know what a proctologist do, you would be wondering why you would need to visit a proctologist. Well, following are some reasons to see a proctologist:

1. When you see or feel an external anal lump
2. When you observe a discharge from the anus
3. When you have rectal bleeding
4. When you see a change in bowel habits or change in the size of the bowel movement
5. When you have turned 50+ years and need a colonoscopy
6. When you have anemia and the source of it is in your colon, anus or rectum
7. When you have had polyps in the past
8. If you have a strong family history of colorectal cancer or colon polyps
9. If you have pain or swelling on the buttocks
10. When you have irritable bowel syndrome

Where to Find a Good Proctologist?

You can ask for some references from friends or relatives. In addition to this, you can also find best proctologists in Los Angeles through the internet. Schedule a private consultation and discuss your colorectal health with the physician. Ask as many questions as you want and become educated in all the aspects of your problem and its diagnosis.

Fecal Incontinence: Treatment and Management

Fecal or bowel incontinence is the unintentional loss of gas or stool. It is caused due to the failure of components that help the body to control the evacuation of stool or flatus. This is one of the most common bowel control problems, and many people shy to talk about their bowel problems or seek medical advice on time.

Different treatment options can help you regain bowel control. Your doctor can suggest a treatment analyzing the cause of incontinence. For bowel problems, you should always consult colon and rectal specialist who can suggest you changes in the diet and provide medications. Your doctor can also recommend a surgery if other treatments fail.

Treatment Options

Dietary Changes

Dietary changes are suggested to improve the consistency of your stool and prevent incontinence. Here are some diet do’s and don’ts:

In case of constipation

• Drink plenty of water. (At least 7-8 glasses of water in a day)
• Eat foods that are rich in fiber such as whole grains, vegetables, cereals, and fruits, etc.
• Eat smaller meals frequently
• Stay active as much as possible

In case of diarrhea

• Avoid eating spicy or oily foods, dairy products, alcohol, smoked meat, caffeine, etc.
• Eat fiber-rich foods

Medications

Medications also help in improving the consistency of stool by slowing down the movement of food through the intestine. With this, water can be fully absorbed in the colon, and you will get sufficient time to get to the bathroom when you feel the urge to evacuate. Some of the medications for fecal incontinence treatment are:

• Fiber supplements
• Antidiarrheal drugs
• Laxatives and stool softeners

Note: Don’t take any medication, without consulting your doctor.

Surgery

Your doctor can also suggest surgery for treating fecal incontinence. Some of the surgical treatments for fecal incontinence are:

• Sphincter repair
• Surgery for rectal prolapse
• Colostomy (For severe incontinence)

There are some more advanced treatment options like Solesta, Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) or Interstim that your surgeon can suggest considering the type of incontinence. He/she can also suggest bowel training or exercises for controlling your bowel movements.

These were the treatment options for Fecal Incontinence. If you are looking for a certified Colon and Rectal surgeon in Los Angeles, get in touch with Dr. Karen Zaghiyan M.D., who is specialized in the surgical and non-surgical treatment of Fecal Incontinence. She is a board-certified colorectal surgeon with advanced training in colorectal surgery. Book your appointment today!