A proctological examination is an important step in the diagnosis and treatment of complaints in the anal and rectal area. However, the prospect of this is associated with uncertainty and anxiety for many people. With the right preparation, you can not only alleviate your own concerns, but also help to ensure that the examination goes smoothly and that the results are more meaningful. This article gives you all the important information on how you can prepare yourself optimally – based on scientific recommendations and the experience of experts.
Why is preparation so important?
Careful preparation enables the proctologist to precisely classify your symptoms and initiate targeted treatment measures at an early stage. This will help you avoid unnecessary delays and discomfort. Preparation also helps you to feel more comfortable during the examination and makes the procedures seem less unpleasant.
Steps for optimal preparation
In most cases, preparing for a proctological examination is straightforward. Nevertheless, there are some measures you can take in advance to make the examination as comfortable and effective as possible.
Open discussion when making an appointment
- Tell the practice team about your symptoms when you make your appointment. Information about symptoms such as bleeding, pain or itching will help the doctor to prepare optimally for your examination.
- Clarify whether additional preparations are necessary, for example for planned interventions or special diagnostic procedures.
Colon cleansing: When is it necessary?
- For routine examinations: It is often sufficient to empty the bowel with a normal bowel movement on the day of the examination. You should avoid straining too much.
- For special examinations or procedures: Some proctologic examinations, such as a proctoscopy or rectoscopy, require a more thorough cleaning of the rectum. Microclysters or mild laxatives can be used for this purpose. These usually work quickly and gently, so you don’t have to worry about time-consuming preparatory measures.
Hygiene before the examination
- Clean the anal area thoroughly but gently.
- Use mild soaps or cleansing wipes that do not irritate the skin.
- Avoid aggressive products to prevent skin irritation before the examination.
Nutrition and drinking behavior
- In most cases, you can eat and drink normally before the examination. An exception is a colonoscopy or other major procedures where a special diet is required.
- If your doctor has not given you any other instructions, you can eat light, easily digestible food the day before the examination.
Choose comfortable clothing
Wear clothes that you can take off easily. This not only makes the examination easier, but also helps you to feel more relaxed.
Medication and allergy information
- Inform the doctor in advance of any medication you are taking. This is particularly important in the case of blood-thinning medication or painkillers, as they may affect the performance of certain examinations.
- Indicate any allergies (e.g. to latex or certain ointments) so that the doctor can take them into account.
What can you expect during the examination?
A proctological examination usually consists of several steps. They are all designed to analyze your symptoms and initiate the best treatment.
Medical history: The doctor will first ask you about your symptoms, your medical history, your diet and your previous treatments. This discussion forms the basis for further examinations.
External inspection: The doctor examines the external anal area for visible changes such as redness, fistulas or enlarged hemorrhoids.
Rectal palpation examination: The doctor uses a gloved finger to feel the rectum for lumps, hardening or tenderness. This examination only takes a few seconds and is usually not painful.
Instrumental investigations:
- Proctoscopy: The anal canal is examined more closely using a short, thin tube (proctoscope).
- Rectoscopy: This procedure enables a detailed examination of the rectum. Both examinations are generally painless and only take a few minutes.
Scientifically sound recommendations
According to the guidelines of the German Society of Coloproctology (DGK), the preparation depends on the type of examination. For simple, diagnostic examinations, a mild cleansing of the rectum is often sufficient. For more invasive procedures or colonoscopies, however, more extensive bowel cleansing is necessary to ensure optimal viewing conditions. These recommendations are not only for diagnostic purposes, but also for the safety and comfort of patients.
Tips for reducing anxiety
- Obtain information: If you know exactly what to expect, you can better prepare yourself mentally for the examination.
- Use relaxation techniques: Deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation help to reduce nervousness before and during the examination.
- Build trust with the doctor: A professional, empathetic doctor-patient consultation creates trust and makes the whole process more pleasant.
When should you not postpone the examination?
There are certain symptoms for which you should not hesitate to consult a proctologist:
- Bleeding that lasts longer than a few days.
- Severe pain or palpable lumps in the anal area.
- Persistent changes in bowel movements such as chronic constipation or diarrhea.
- Unexplained weight loss or fever in combination with anal discomfort.
Conclusion
With the right preparation, a proctological examination will be easier and more pleasant. Inform yourself in advance, consult your doctor and pay attention to hygiene and a light bowel cleansing. In this way, you can make an important contribution to ensuring that your symptoms are detected early and treated effectively.
VenaZiel – Your experts for proctology in Berlin
If you have any questions about preparation or existing complaints, please contact the VenaZiel Vein Center Berlin with confidence. Our experienced team of proctologists provides empathetic care, professional diagnostics and modern therapies. Make an appointment today and benefit from our many years of expertise.
References:
- Schubert MC, Sridhar S, Kim A, et al. (2020). What Every Gastroenterologist Needs to Know About Common Anorectal Disorders. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology.
- Riss S, Weiser FA, Schwameis K, et al. (2012). The Prevalence of Hemorrhoids in Adults. International Journal of Colorectal Disease.
- Sun Z, Migaly J. (2021). Review of Hemorrhoid Disease: Presentation and Management. Clinics in Colon and Rectal Surgery.
- German Society for Coloproctology (DGK). (2021). Guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of hemorrhoidal disease. DGK guidelines.
- Patel H, Bagwell CE, Saleeby ER, et al (2019). Advances in Hemorrhoid Treatment: Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy and Beyond. World Journal of Gastroenterology.
- Abramowitz L, Batallan A. (2014). Hemorrhoid Disease: Pathophysiology and Epidemiology. Annals of Gastroenterology and Hepatology.