A proctologist is a kind of doctor who is certified, trained, and has great experience in treating diseases related to the anus, rectum, and gastrointestinal tract. They are also known as an anorectal or colorectal surgeon. A proctologist also known as a colorectal surgeon is a highly-skilled, trained, certified, and experienced doctor that treats all the diseases related to the digestive system. 

But how to find the best proctologist near me is the question that must be shrouding your mind. Well searching and finding the best one might not be so much of a problem as compared to trying to find the specialist who is best suitable for you.

Through this article, let's try to get to know more about the role of a proctologist, the diseases they treat and when should you consult one. 

A proctologist also treats the following diseases which are related to the intestinal tract:

Anal skin tag 

Colon and rectal cancer 

Hemorrhoids 

Anal fistula 

Anal fissure 

Diverticulitis 

Inflammatory Bowel Disease 

Irritable Bowel Syndrome 

Polyps 

Rectal Polyps 

The types of procedures that a proctologist does are as follows:

Anoscopy:  This procedure is used in identifying abnormalities in the anus and rectum.

Colonoscopy:  This procedure is used in examining the entire colon and screening for colorectal cancer. It is also used in the effective removal of polyps.

Digital rectal exams:  In this procedure, the doctor examines the lower rectum and prostate with their fingers.

Endorectal ultrasound:  This procedure is used in diagnosing colorectal cancer.

Proctoscopy:  This procedure is also used in examining the rectum and anus. In this procedure, the doctor takes the tissue for biopsy and is also used in removing polyps.

Sigmoidoscopy:  This procedure is used in examining the lower part of your colon and is called the sigmoid colon.

A proctologist must be consulted when you start to notice the following symptoms:

Bleeding or discharge from the anus

Itching and burning in the anus

Pain in the rectal or anal

Fecal incontinence

The sensation of having extra skin around the anus

While speaking to your proctologist, it is important to be open and free. Although it might cause some embarrassment, speaking up without hesitation will be beneficial for you. It will help the doctor to understand the symptoms and save you from unnecessary tests that might delay your treatment. 

You may find a colorectal surgeon by just asking or taking a referral from any of your primary care doctors or you can also ask a healthcare specialist. But, they should be well trained, highly skilled, and certified.